1976 Dart Overheating and other issues
I just shut it down and there is an ever so slight bubbling at the upper outlet in the metal just before the rubber hose. Barley noticeable, but probably a pinhole. Also, when I turn the key to ACC position to look at the gauge, the temp went from the lower tick to the middle after shutdown, but I assume that’s normal due to the reduced airflow from the fan since I shut it down.
Yes its normal for the temperature to rise after shutdown.
I'd say the temperature gage is providing exactly the information it should, and you are interpreting correctly.
Upper large hose connection is the radiator's inlet.
let it cool, drain off some coolant and check out that leak.
If its a solder joint, repair should be easy.
Core doesn't look terrible in the photos through the fan.
But again looks, esp in a photo, can be decieving.
See what it looks like on the inside once you drain it (and maybe run some clean water through it).
Or if you can find an old school radiator shop, have them check it out.
Good recore of an original radiator is a couple hundred easy. If neccessary, it is worth it assuming the tanks aren't too thin. Solder repairs and patches are less expensive.
New radiators are often made thinner and with less quality control.
