350 thermostat questions

[Mikester]

Hi folks, guess the riddle is solved: the hose from/to the overflow reservoir was totally blocked.
Couldnt try with the new thermostat yet but I m pretty posistive. Does this make sense?

 

[77Impala]

Yes it does make sense. Air could not flow out nor coolant be able to flow back into the radiator after the system cooled down. Glad you found your problem.

 

[Mikester]

Thanks! Runs great now

 

[Ironhead]

I personally prefer to use the T fitting in the heater hose to flush and fill the cooling system. I found one at NAPA, and helped a buddy install it on his car, which he could not fully purge of air. With the T fitting, the air burped out right away.

Prestone have one of those fittings branded with their name, but they should be in most auto parts stores, some with house brand names.

 

[77Impala]

The only problem with the tee fitting adapter is that when you want to back flush a clogged heater core it may not do it. The water will find the path of least resistance. I use to use them as well but have not for the last 8 years. I have found a few heater cores that no matter what you could not back flush them, they had to be replaced. If you have a good system to start with and never use stop leak and flush fill every 2 to 3 years then they work very well.