Cooling System Marginal in Traffic
Symptoms
Temperature gauge rises in slow traffic, particularly on hot days. May push coolant out the overflow.
Cause
The Red Motor generates more heat than the Grey Motor it replaced, and the cooling system, while adequate for 1960s driving, struggles in modern stop-start traffic, particularly in Australian summer conditions. The original radiator may be partially clogged with scale after 60 years. The engine-driven fan only moves adequate air at highway speeds.
Fix
First, have the radiator recored or replaced ($300-600).
Flush the entire cooling system.
Ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly (replace it, they're cheap).
Add an electric thermo fan behind the radiator for low-speed cooling ($100-200 for a Davies Craig kit).
Check that the water pump is not leaking or cavitating.
Ensure the fan belt is tight.
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