1930 Model A engine running hot

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KCW

Member
I’ve got a 1930 Model A. When I got it about 8 years ago the previous owner had installed a temperature gauge. It’s underneath the steering column. The engine has been running hot and a friend of mine suggested that perhaps the gauge itself is bad. I was thinking of replacing it. We’ve tried everything else. Attached are a few photos. One is of the gauge itself and another is where it inserts in the engine. Not really sure how it work. Does anyone know where I might get a similar one to swap it out and where? I can’t imagine it’s that difficult to install. Thank you everyone!!!

PS. Drove for ten minutes the other day and the engine read 210degF. Spark was timed appropriately.
 

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Take the probe out and stick it in boiling water. You can use a hot plate in the engine compartment. It should read 212 F. Or stick it in hot water with an accurate thermometer in the same water. They should read the same temperature.
 
You can use a temperature gun to check it. I don't care for the temp. Guage, I'm old school...if the engine smells funny, can't touch the head then it's hot. If you hear the radiator gurgling, it's hot.
If the exhaust manifold is white or you hear the engine ticking when its off, it's hot.
After a ride you should be able to touch the dip stick, carburetor and top of hood.
I do know the engine will run 10 degrees cooler with the engine pans installed.
 
KCW said:
I’ve got a 1930 Model A. When I got it about 8 years ago the previous owner had installed a temperature gauge. It’s underneath the steering column. The engine has been running hot and a friend of mine suggested that perhaps the gauge itself is bad. I was thinking of replacing it. We’ve tried everything else. Attached are a few photos. One is of the gauge itself and another is where it inserts in the engine. Not really sure how it work. Does anyone know where I might get a similar one to swap it out and where? I can’t imagine it’s that difficult to install. Thank you everyone!!!

PS. Drove for ten minutes the other day and the engine read 210degF. Spark was timed appropriately.
Click to expand...

You can get a universal temperature gauge at any auto parts store. I had to replace one on mine and the one I bought had different threads on it. I then had to go back and get an adapter for it. That also comes as a universal kit.
As to why it's getting hot, if your timing and fuel is set properly, check the radiator. A lot of the tubes could be stopped up and the water isn't flowing like it needs to.
 
Wick brought up the use of an IR gun. This is a good tool to measure different parts of the engine and cooling system. The head will run a different temperature than the temperature of the exiting coolant. It will also measure a different temperature fore and aft. The IR gun can be used to diagnose problems with the radiator such as clogged tubes.
 
Another thought is have you checked your timing? Maybe you are running too retarded which could affect engine temperature.
 
Unless I missed it, you didn't mention if it's spitting hot water or steam out the radiator overflow tube. The old-timers used to say if it's not shooting water on the ground it's not overheating.

As Wick previously mentioned, if you hear a gurgling/boiling sound under the hood that's a good indication you're overheating.
 
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