The previous owner of my 1954 Chevy pickup did not do much mechanic work in the past 25 years. So as I am fiddling around, I end up finding issues.
During the process of cleaning out the radiator fluid and engine cooling system, I found the thermostat completely shot. So it was equivalent to not having one.
Since I got that deep into it, I assumed the waterpump might never have been replaced or rebuilt so this would be a good time for a new water pump.
That is not a simple option. I looked at multiple sources which all say that they carry the waterpump that is for my model year and engine.
They all fit the engine, but the issue is really about the pulley size, so that my fan belt will work. And yes, based on some other forums here at Stovebolt, you do have to pull the radiator to get the fan off. But it is just 6 bolts so not a big deal.
The second waterpump I purchased has the correct pulley, but I realized the pulley sits a tad farther away from the engine block (toward the radiator).
A fit check was in order, and that is when I realized that the gap between the fan and the radiator reduced from ¼” to about .1”. maybe will be 1/8” when I tighten everything up.
That seems awfully close for the fan blade clearance. Therefore I think my solution is to just put the old pump back on. The bearings feel really good, the same firmness in rotating as the bran new one.
I thought I should check with all you smart people out here to get your opinion on the fan clearance to the radiator. Is .10" too close for a reasonably conservative comfort level?
New Old Truck Owner
