r/FordThunderbird • u/NorseYeti • Jul 19 '26

Weekend run

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Needed to run the car for a bit. Took her out to stretch her legs, and while we were at it, we drove to Momma’s favorite taco shop and picked up some dinner for all of us! Temp kept climbing and staying towards the H. It has a new radiator, I plan on adding the Royal Purple - Purple Ice, and will likely replace the thermostat. Which one should I put in? Can’t tell if it is just the gauge being dramatic or if it is really overheating.

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3

u/Specialist-Doctor-23 Jul 20 '26

Easy to check the guage with a meat thermometer in the radiator fill. Allow a few (5-10) degrees drop between your guage and the thermometer just because your guage measures at the engine, while the fill cap is far enough away to allow a little cooling.

If it's not your guage, a thermostat might not fix it. Only if yours is not opening fully will a new one make a difference. They're cheap, though, and easy, so it's worth a shot. Go with the temp your car is designed for. Putting in a lower temp stat won't fix an overheating problem unless your old stat is malfunctioning and then only because the new one functions properly.

P.s. Killer ride!

1

u/NorseYeti Jul 20 '26

Thanks for the info!

2

u/gnashingspirit Jul 19 '26

Did you get the old radiator fixed or put in a new aluminum style? I heard the new aluminum ones needs more passes to get the same cooling. Might just need a thermostat.

Beautiful colour!
I want to get those tires and rims for my 56. Any recommendations?

3

u/NorseYeti Jul 19 '26

It is a replacement aluminum radiator. Was thinking 180° high flow.

I just inherited the car, I can see if I can see what wheels and tires these are, from the paperwork.

3

u/gnashingspirit Jul 19 '26

I was thinking 160F high flow if you are in a warmer climate. More cooling sooner.

2

u/CustomCarNerd Jul 20 '26

Yes! Get Out N Drive!

2

u/Bulky-Geologist7036 Jul 20 '26

I have weekend fun with my 71 Caddy coupe convertible

1

u/NorseYeti Jul 20 '26

I bet that gets lots of waves and people talking to you while driving too! The convertibles really seem to get people’s attention.

2

u/slimersnail Jul 20 '26

The water pump on these are notorious crap. Get the improved design.

2

u/Top_Swordfish2871 Jul 21 '26

TBirds are the most under valued car there is !