1963 Pontiac Bonneville Overheating

Tiny
HARRY DEBUTTS
  • MEMBER
  • 1963 PONTIAC BONNEVILLE
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 93,000 MILES
While driving at speed engine remains cool (below 200) but quickly heats up when slowing or stopped for any length of time. Fluid is and remains full and radiator seems in good condition with no visible leaks.

What indications are there of a slow water pump failure aside from catastrophic - as in when it literally quits.
Friday, August 8th, 2008 AT 4:22 PM

2 Replies

Tiny
RASMATAZ
  • MECHANIC
  • 75,992 POSTS
Test or replace the thermostat and recheck the coolant level-if okay get it block and pressure tested.

Checking water pump

One way to test for a bad water pump is to squeeze the upper radiator hose when the engine is hot and idling. Careful, because the hose will be HOT! If you do not feel much coolant circulating through the hose when you rev the engine, the pump may be bad. The other cause might be a bad thermostat that is not opening properly (remove and inspect the thermostat), or a clogged radiator
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Friday, August 8th, 2008 AT 4:31 PM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
I know most 63's didnt have a fan clutch, but if yours does, this is a symtom of a bad one!
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Saturday, August 9th, 2008 AT 6:33 AM

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