Cooling Issue - 1964 Dart GT - 273 with automatic and A/C
As a guy who has a highly modified 273 commando engine in my 66 barracuda with auto and ac. Mine has a factor radiator and fan shroud and clutch style fan. No issues getting hot. I tried the aluminum radiator route and honestly it had a tough time like yours does. I’m not saying the aluminum is the issue.
The temp fluctuates a lot with aluminum.
Also, with gauges that are 60years old verify they are operating properly. May be a aftermarket gauge installed will show your factory gauge is out of calibration. As for the engine, normal stuff to check is:
Water pump (cast iron unit)
Thermostat
Hoses
Blockage in the coolant system - drain and flush the block.
Ignition timing
Running too lean.
Slipping converter / transmission.
Just a few.
Syleng1
As a guy who has a highly modified 273 commando engine in my 66 barracuda with auto and ac. Mine has a factor radiator and fan shroud and clutch style fan. No issues getting hot. I tried the aluminum radiator route and honestly it had a tough time like yours does. I’m not saying the aluminum is the issue.
The temp fluctuates a lot with aluminum.
Also, with gauges that are 60years old verify they are operating properly. May be a aftermarket gauge installed will show your factory gauge is out of calibration. As for the engine, normal stuff to check is:
Water pump (cast iron unit)
Thermostat
Hoses
Blockage in the coolant system - drain and flush the block.
Ignition timing
Running too lean.
Slipping converter / transmission.
Just a few.
Syleng1