radiator problem

[oldtruckluvr]

I have a 54 chevy with 235. Awhile ago, i noticed that my radiator was leaking badly as soon as the truck warmed up. I took radiator to radiator shop and had it cleaned and there were no leaks at all. Put a new thermostat in as well. Whenever truck starts to warm up, the overflow tube starts draining all the fluid in the radiator. any ideas what could cause this? thanks!!

 

[Larrys 48]

Sounds like you need to install a "puke tank" to catch the fluid as it expands while heating up. There are OEM expansion tanks and aftermarket available.

 

[drabo]

Try replacing your radiator cap. The cap is supposed to relieve some pressure and if it doesn't it will blow your anti-freeze out through the over flow. If you have a catch can it will just fill it up too.

 

[cmkruse]

Radiator Cap

I don't know about the cars but the trucks use either a "0" or "4" lbs pressure cap i can't remember which but that wouldn't help stop the overflow. I had an engine with a soft lower radiator hose and with a new water pump sucked it closed - the engine overheated and then puked. Might check your hose for the same condition. Just a thought.

 

[mikebte]

Yes a cap is what it sounds like your issue is. It should keep the coolant in until it reaches a set psi. Sounds like yours is running out as soon as it starts to worm up.