Radiator Cap Question

[1988WHTGT]

I keep having bad luck with radiator caps. Is there one out there thats better than the other? Also, do the ones with the lever on them to let pressure off the system last as long and are they good to have? I want to do something about this today so any input is appreciated.

 

[srothfuss]

What kind of bad luck are you having? What is happening to your cooling system?

More information would be helpful to offer assistance. However, any new Rad cap should be good as long as it holds pressure

 

[1988WHTGT]

They've all (and all I mean like 3) get to the point where they kind of hiss or the overflow bottle fills up. And then sometimes the bottle is empty. I dunno, I'm putting in a new Mr. Gasket T-Stat today, figured I'd ask if anyone thought one rad cap was better than the other.

 

[srothfuss]

I can't say that any particular one is better than the other (I haven't bought one ever)

It sounds like you have a over heating problem. Are you running a stock mechanical fan or E-fan? Do you still have the air deflector attached to the bottom of your stang?

 

[1988WHTGT]

I have an elec fan. Air deflector is still there. I'm still running the stock radiator after doing my h/c/i but I figured it would work fine b/c its not very old.

 

[LX302]

I don't think the cap is your problem. It could be a thermostat not properly opening, causing a restriction in the coolant system, and the cap/overflow bottle is the only pace the coolant can go.

 

[1988WHTGT]

Well, I've got a 180 Mr. Gasket T-Stat sitting here to put in.....guess I'll find out. And what do you guys suggest doing, after I get this new T-stat in, for refilling with coolant? Just fill it up, run it and check the level after it cools off?

 

[srothfuss]

After you install your T-stat and get your car buttoned back up...

leave the radiator cap off. Start the car (in park or neutral with the e-brake on) and turn on the heater. Now, run out and fill up your radiator until it's full. After a few minutes of idleing, the T-Stat will open and the coolant level will go down again. At this point refill the radiator again and let it run for a couple more minutes making sure the level doesn't go down any more. Replace the cap and take a short drive. Come home and let the car cool down then recheck the system.

Should be full after that.

 

[HISSIN50]

Also make sure the radiator surface where the cap seal mates is perfect. If not, the seal will not be tight and one can hear pressure bleeding off.

Good luck.

 

[Shakerhood]

I run a Motorcraft one and never have any problems.