This was how my 1941 Caddy was built, the thermostat operated a shutter in front of the radiator.
Also on page 19 of the "1950 Chevy Operators Manual for light, medium and heavy duty trucks," they recommend a higher thermostat OR covering part of the radiator under certain conditions. Mostly when the engine idles a lot or frequent stop and starting.
Denny Graham
Sandwich, IL
