When working on older and classic vintage automobiles the beauty is that these autos predate electronic systems and complex as well as ultra complex mechanical systems. At least in old Chevies, Fords and other basic American made cars you had lots of room to work in.  Also in most cases (although not all) there is relatively easy access to parts and components and relatively logical & easy to disassemble and then put back together. In terms of auto leaks or in cases where you know that fluids are leaking but cannot find any major lots – you can do a lot of the basic workup of checking your auto for leaks of various types.

                 To check for exhaust gasses into the cooling system, drain the system until the water level stands just above the top of the cylinder head.  Next disconnect the upper radiator hose and remove the thermostat and fan belt.  Start the engine and quickly accelerate several times.  At the same time note any appreciable water rise or appearance of bubbles, which are indicative of exhaust gasses leaking into the cooling system.

              Small water leaks in the cooling system can be fixed by means of special commercially available preparations designed to stop such leaks. Instructions covering the use of such chemicals supplied by the manufacturer and supplemented with instructions online should be carefully and thoroughly followed.

               In the lease of leaking core plugs.  These should be replaced.  There are a number of these cores plugs located throughout the engine and water jacket. In some situations they can be very difficult to reach.  To remove a rusted core plug, drive a screwdriver or other pointed tool into the center of the plug, and pry it from the engine block.  After carefully cleaning the recess, a new plug is installed by driving it into position with a drift approximately the same diameter as the plug itself.  Before driving the plug into position, the recess is carefully coated with suitable cement.

            Most water leaks in a cooling system are clearly visible to the eye.  However to locate some leaks it is necessary to apply pressure to the cooling system.  Such pressure can be applied by means of special and specialized equipment.  If the pressure applied to the system and it is determined that with thorough and full testing procedures that no leak is present at all – then the differential diagnosis has established that coolant is being lost through the radiator cap and overflow – into the “overflow “ capture canister.  However if the pressure is not maintained – on the other hand – this indicates that no doubt that there is definitely and surely leakage somewhere.  Therefore if the leakage cannot be seen by the naked eye – then it all likelihood is occurring at a defective cylinder head gasket. You can basically bet money on your careful and thorough workup and work through.

              It’s a labor of love working on older American made cars.  They come from a time before modern plastic econo-boxes and sophisticated electronics that are modular and non-repairable. Older American vehicles came before the time of “throw away” products. You can do a lot of the work yourself and have a lot of fun, pride and enjoyment in your vintage auto projects.

Kerry Francis

Surrey Auto Dealers

Winnipeg Truck Traders