I have a 1959 371 stuffed into a 1934 ford using the 34 ford radiator. After driving a short distance in hot weather i notice water being forced out of the radiator into the overflow. i am driving short distance and not at highway speeds testing a few changes to the car. The 34 did not have a pressurized water system and wondering if the 371 did ? And if so, will this be an issue ? Btw the temp gage does not indicate overheating. Just seems water to be percolating after i drive it this short distance and slow speeds.

 

You need to leave some head space in the radiator for the coolant to expand as it warms. If not it will muscle its way past the cap.

 

You should be able to use either an open system as described above or a closed system. The differences are the type of radiator cap used and the type of overflow jug. Closed system use a cap with a return valve and a jug with some sort of hose to the bottom of the jug in order to siphon coolant back into the radiator.

 

The stock '59 Olds (W/O, A/C) had a cooling system pressurized at 13 PSI.
As others have mentioned, I think your problem stems from overfilling when cold.

 

Thanks for the help. Was wondering if i had blown a head gasket. But since the outflow seems to be happening after i park it was very confused.

 

How is the radiator connected to the engine?
The ' 34 Ford radiator had two inlets at the bottom and two outlets on top.
Are one each of the inlets and outlets blocked?

 

Hi charlie

Yes now one top and bottom. Using the 371 std inlet and outlet. Had a guy in sanford go through the radiator. Car had been sitting and wanted to be sure cores were clear.

ken

 

I guess as long as you keep an eye on the temp gauge on hot days you will be OK.
That '34 radiator was meant to cool a 221 cu. in. flathead.
Now you are asking it to cool a 371 Oldsmobile .
And only one inlet and outlet are being used.
But I guess you don't have much choice.