'64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

[Fred Hammerle]

Any special procedure or tips to be followed in filling a completely dry cooling system after a radiator change out to a new DeWitts? THANKS!

[Duke W.]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

No. Fill the system slowly. When the level in the tank reaches about half, and it won't take anymore, start the engine. When the thermostat opens the level will drop. Fill back to about half level and when it won't take anymore, install the cap and take it for a short low speed drive. The system should self bleed once the thermostat opens.

Let the system cool and check and correct the level as required.

Duke

[Fred Hammerle]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

Thanks Duke. Fred

[Jim T.]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

To get the old coolant out of the engine block remove both side block drains.

[Fred Hammerle]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

Thanks Jim ... already drained the block on both sides. Fred

[John H.]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

I've always filled a dry system through the thermostat opening in the intake until the coolant rises to the level of the opening, install the thermostat and housing (already attached to the upper hose), then top off through the expansion tank filler. Start it up, let it come up to temp so the thermostat opens and you see circulation in the tank, then check the tank for 1/2-full when it cools down. Never had an air pocket or had to "burp" one.

[Dave F.]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

John,

Your method is my understanding of the safest way to ensure that as much coolant as possible will get into the system. For me, with having to break in the cam on a fresh engine rebuild, my concern is to guard against overheating, especially during this process. Mine is a 68, with a closed system using the supply tank as the fill source. I have the oil pressure & temperature gage, radiator, core support, and metal shroud all in place, and plan to use my 30" shop fan directed at the radiator. Is there anthing else I can focus on?

Dave

[Roger Legge]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

I know this thread is about the cooling system, but you mention a concern with overheating on an initial start/break-in. Make sure the ignition timing is not retarded because this can cause an engine to run hot.

Roger

[Dave F.]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

Thanks Roger. I do have a new vacuum advance, plus I replaced the amplifier on my Transistorized ignition, and some good old fashioned "racing fuel" in the tank, so I'll advance the timing as far as she'll go

[Randy Adams]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

I've used John's method twice and never had a problem.

[Fred Hammerle]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

Thanks for all responses. Most appreciated. Fred

[John H.]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

A typical plastic radiator fill funnel with holes drilled in it as shown below simplifies no-spill filling through the thermostat opening - it stands up in the hole by itself, and you can monitor the coolant level as it rises without having a sudden "overflow" around the edge.

[Dave F.]

Re: '64 COOLING SYSTEM FILL PROCEDURE

Nice tip, John. One born from experience I'm sure! Thanks.