Guys...
which Thermostat should I buy for my 53, the 160 or 180 degree? I'm leaning toward the 180 as i've already read that the higher temp helps burn off condensation in the oil

 

I prefer a 180. Remember a thermostat only regulates minimum operating temp, the maximum will be based on how well your cooling system works.

 

OK, thanks Eric....and in the not to distant future I have to fit a fan shroud.

 

It is pretty much a matter of preference. I prefer the 160 degree in my 54.

Nigel, I have a fan shroud from a 51 that I bought to try and fit on my 54. You might check and see if it will work on your 53. Those things are pretty hard to find.

 

Cheers Red that would be fantastic, i'll dig around on the internet and see what I find out.

 

I can get it out and take a picture. It is up in my attic.

 

If you don't mind, that would be great mate.
This is the only pic of a fan shroud that I could turn up on searches for Olds fan shrouds 51 through 53.....they are a rare beast.

 

Nigel:

I have attached 4 pictures (hope they all go through) of the fan shroud. The shroud came off a 51 Olds. It is 22" wide and 23 1/2 inches tall. It has 4 holes on each side. It has surface rust on it but will clean up fine. Sorry about getting my feet in the pictures. If this works send me a PM.

Glenn

 

This looks good mate, i'll have a measure up tomorrow before work.

 

Apparently, as has been said, it comes down to personal preference. Here is what the Olds parts book shows for group number 1.246 from 1940-1959:

Dole type - 160 degrees; part 563219
Harrison type - 160 degrees; part 3126289
Dole type - 180 degrees; part 563311
Harrison type - 180 degrees; part 3126290

In the "old days" the type of anti-freeze/coolant being used made a difference, but today, I don't know anyone using alcohol.

The higher temps are a bit better for efficiency and, as you said, ridding condensation. The cooler one is probably a bit better for the lubricant and the fuel issues. You could try each for a while to determine the best for your application. In my '55 I've settled on the 160.

 

Thank you once again Ozzie, sounds like a plan on getting both.