Overheating in Modern Traffic
Symptoms
Temperature gauge climbs or the engine boils over in slow traffic or on hot days.
Cause
The Grey Motor's cooling system was designed for 1950s driving conditions, sustained speeds on open roads, not crawling through suburban traffic in 35-degree heat. The original radiator is marginal for modern conditions, the water pump capacity is modest, and the engine-driven fan only moves adequate air at highway speeds.
Fix
Flush and check the radiator, a 70-year-old radiator is almost certainly partially clogged.
Have it recored ($300-600) or fit a new aluminium replacement ($400-800).
Add an electric thermo fan behind the radiator for low-speed cooling.
Ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly (replace it, they're cheap).
Check that the fan belt is tight and the water pump is not leaking.
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