Radiator Replacement
03-26-2015, 03:29 AM
#1
Instructor
Thread Starter
Radiator Replacement
Will I be ok, if flushing the block through the thermostat opening, getting to block plugs with shielding and starter, wondering if it is necessary? Trying to minimize down time on car and get the Dewitts in.
03-26-2015, 08:00 AM
#2
Race Director
Member Since: Feb 2007
Location: northern california
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C2 of Year Finalist (track prepared) 2019
There is a reason those block drain plugs are there.
If you don't flush the block thoroughly, there is a chance you'll end up pumping some debris into that new DeWitts radiator, maybe partially clogging it.
Is saving a couple of steps worth that risk? Your call.
Jim
If you don't flush the block thoroughly, there is a chance you'll end up pumping some debris into that new DeWitts radiator, maybe partially clogging it.
Is saving a couple of steps worth that risk? Your call.
Jim
03-27-2015, 12:10 AM
#4
Melting Slicks
Most of the crud is going to be in the block. There’s roughly a gallon of liquid left in the block below the water pump holes when draining from the lower radiator hose. The only way to get the remaining crud and liquid out is to remove the block drain plugs.
I would recommend doing the flushing with the old radiator still installed. Remove the block drain plugs, drain and clean out any residue at the drain holes, then install the new radiator.
I would recommend doing the flushing with the old radiator still installed. Remove the block drain plugs, drain and clean out any residue at the drain holes, then install the new radiator.
03-27-2015, 08:26 AM
#5
Team Owner
Its maybe an extra 45 minutes to an hour to drain the block properly - why even take a shortcut ? Of course, if your block drain plugs bolts are frozen up (occurs very often) then that makes it tougher...
03-27-2015, 05:20 PM
#6
Team Owner
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Location: Washington Michigan
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Use a 6-point socket to remove the block drain plugs, and use a little anti-seize on them when re-installing so you don't have to fight them next time. 
03-30-2015, 12:13 AM
#7
Instructor
Thread Starter
So got the plugs out, have to get one new one, but will replace both. So I ran the hose through Tsat opening, any other suggestions. Some debris, not much unless I need to just keep flushing?
03-30-2015, 01:19 AM
#8
Melting Slicks
Gary
03-30-2015, 07:43 AM
#10
Team Owner
If the car isn't going to be judged then replacing those squared off block plugs with petcocks (similar to radiator) is what many do. My '61 had them when I bought it.
Last edited by Frankie the Fink; 03-30-2015 at 07:50 AM.
03-30-2015, 12:37 PM
#11
Melting Slicks
Gary