Rvsmith5

My 1969 455 donor engine is from an ac car, going into a non ac car, same year. What do I do with the water control valve? Should I just plumb it up, remove it, replace it with something else? I am not sure exactly its function, or operation so not sure how or if to circumvent.

thanks,
bob

Vintage Chief

Are you referring to the part (heater control valve) located here>>> https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...rol-valve.html

rob1960

Fusick sells them. You'll need that smaller one for '69

Vintage Chief

We'll see what others have to offer, but I would 'suspect' if the vehicle you're installing this 455 into has no a/c, then you don't even need the heater control valve, IMO, and you can simply install a proper end-cap plug (of which, I believe they are of a normal water pipe fitting made of brass and obtained at a local h/w store).

Rvsmith5

I have it hooked to the heater core. It has a vacuum line on the end. I assume that for this application it needs to flow wide open always so water can circulate. Don't know of it will flow open if I leave it like this, or if my assumption. Is even correct.

Vintage Chief

A couple good thread posts to read which describe the operational features of the HCV. In particular, note they have changed over the years from what is a default 'open' condition, to a default 'closed' condition. But again, if the car you're dropping the 455 into has no AC, I'm suspect you don't even need the HCV.

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...s-supreme.html
https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...ater-help.html

joe_padavano

Actually, it's the other way around. That normally closed and only opens when vacuum is applied. That means that for the OP's installation, he does NOT want that valve in place, as it will block the heater from working. It's also another potential leak point where the actuator shaft goes into the valve. Replace it with the correct restrictor nipple. No muss, no fuss, no failure modes.

Rvsmith5

i will order the correct part tonight. Thank you. I am glad I asked!

bob