I have a 1948 Dodge Sedan and everytime I run the car it overheats and starts spraying steam. I recently had it into a car shop to fix the problem. I had replaced the thermostat about 9 years ago but never got the car running due to overheating issues still continuing. I've recently started the project of fixing up the old car. They said that they flushed the radiator and that I shouldn't have any more problems but I still do. I can drive the car some distance but the whole time it gets hot and overheats, there is a tube connected to the radiator that releases steam along with any fluid in the radiator. I'm not sure what i should check next. I'm not very smart when it comes to cars so this whole thing is a learning experience. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

At the age a lot is possible but radiator is primal.

Send it out to be acid boiled if you can find a good old radiator shop. Those can be unsoldered and rodded out if I recall of any debris. Don't use strong anti-freeze either with these or anything. Max - 50% EG and no more,

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Tom Greenleaf - MetroWest, Boston

Thanks Tom, I'll try that. I'm going to be driving it in a parade this weekend and I don't think there is time to get it done before then. But I'm glad you let me know about the concentration of the solution to use. Also, someone mentioned that the fan may be too small (not enough blades). He had a similar car and it always overheated until he replaced the fant with one that had more fan blades. I've also been told that I should remove the thermostat for now since I won't be driving it in the winter just yet. I did have one other question - the fluid drive - does anyone know how to check the level of the mineral oil in it to make sure it has enough? The car feels like it is slipping in forward motion but works just fine in reverse. I don't think the fluid level in the fluid-drive has been checked.

Thanks again

Know this about Anti-freeze: Too strong doesn't transfer heat well so weaker is better or even plain water for just the parade would work better. You might find an aftermarket fan that will fit that's more aggressive also. Don't leave it with plain water as the anti-corrosion qualities of anti-freeze is muchly needed for long term.

These radiators didn't use overflow tanks but generic aftermarket ones should still be available. That just means you (when a closed system rad cap is utilized) takes full advantage of the expansion area of the radiator as it's always full - not down a 1/2 gal or so leaving room to expand before it throws up on ground! IDK - if this was intended to be ZERO pressure system get a ZERO pressure cap for a closed system if you try that - NAPA should have what you want or find the right radiator shop to help you if unique.

Trans?? Hope you have instructions for checking level and what fluid to use if needed. I plain can't help with that one.

Good luck with the parade!


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Tom Greenleaf - MetroWest, Boston