Sorry to be so scattered with the cooling issues, if I recall, when I had the 180 deg thermo it would not open in time before spewing coolant out the discharge line; that's when I changed to a 160 deg and 7lb cap. From there, the system operated correctly, but I did not have a chance to drive but a few miles before having to rebuild the transmission. During that time, I had bad luck with the Filling Station mechanical temp gauges for getting stuck all the way cold and one stuck all the way hot; this is the third gauge.
I have had this truck for 15 yrs, but this is the first time driving it; I still have not really found the reason why the PO stopped driving it since 1992 (last registration).
It has a new Jim Carter radiator, hose, etc. the engine is a 59' 235 with a 848 head.
I want to confirm, I am starting to think it may be a temp gauge problem? I am having a hard time believing it will rise to 220, hold, but when I turn the truck off and re-start after a few seconds, it will immediately drop to 180. Is this an air pocket or bad gauge? This is the 3rd filling station gauge I have had to use
I will likely test it tonight by removing the sender and comparing in a jar of hot water with a secondary gauge
Any and all help is appreciated, we have some great minds on this site with many years of experience. I just gave this truck to my dad last Wednesday for his 69th birthday, but I want it right so it does not break down on him
Thaks again