v8 t-stat, what else should i check Options

[smrz914]

So i took my t-stat out and put 3 1/8" holes in it. Anything i can/should chech while i'm in there?

[John2kx]

Paul,

I take it you test drove the car and still had the exact same symptoms?

You won't get all the air out the first time. I assume you followed the procedure I spelled out. I suggest doing the whole bleeding procedure one more time before moving on to something else.

Did you see the bubbles completely go away at your fill point while engine was warming up? If you lower the level at that point about 1" and increase idle to about 1200-1500 or so, you will be able to run engine while water is expanding. If air bubbles you present then, I'd suspect a blown head gasket. You could also pull your plugs.........if a cylinder is pumping water, you'll see a rusty color on plug.

Did you richen your carb back to where it was prior to overheating?

On the subject of pressure testing mentioned by Brad, I've had good and bad experiences with the testers. I've had a nick on the mounting surface where the cap goes give false indication of a leak as well as leaking gasket on the tester.

What about having a chemical analisis performed on your coolant. I've heard these are available over the shelf or you could have a shop do it for you. This will tell you if exhaust gases are entering the coolant system.

Have you checked your dip stick for signs of water in oil?

How old was that used radiator you installed? It could have pluggage.

I would not put all my faith in the one gage your using to measure by..........install a second gage on intake.

John