I reread my notes and that temp on the bottom temp was actually the condenser fan temp switch bulb (about 1/3 from bottom) and was actually 157. The probe is clamped to the radiator side frame and is aimed toward the center of the radiator but it doesn't touch the core, maybe 1/8 to 3/16" from core. I usually push the probe through the fins but this staggered fin construction doesn't leave enough room to push through the fins with risking tube damage.

The actual core was about 10 deg warmer. I had the stock 4 blade mechanical fan running and the 2 condenser pusher fans running. Made one 5 mile trip on the interstate at 60 mph and the temp dropped maybe 3-5 deg.

I "flow tested" the radiator off the car while it was apart. Not very scientific, but I would say it flowed out about like any other I have flushed off the car.

The strange thing is temp does not vary much with the load, pulling hills, slow driving, interstate driving. or just sitting and idling.

The electric fans cycle when idling.

I don't want to run my engine at 160, good for performance driving but too cold for everyday use. Engine runs much better at 190-195, better fuel economy, crankcase condensation eliminated much quicker etc.
Ambient temp yesterday was in mid 60's.

Unsure of my radiator cap, but it is immaterial because I am not boiling over or losing water, would not affect engine temp, only keeps the water in the system and raise boiling point.

I have only driven the car about 60 or 70 miles since I bought it last spring.
Stock gauge read hot then.
Now with paint and body and reassembly finished I am shaking out bugs.

The radiator looks like it is probably the original style (2 staggered tubes).
Cooling system internals are squeaky clean. (this was a one owner car)

Looked at water distribution tube a few months ago, and probed with a bent wire on all downward passages were clear (couldn't remove without damage due to crimp).

Weber carb and Peirce manifold were on it when I bought it, I know I need one step richer on the primary jet (has a flat spot before the secondary kicks in).


My good friend has a 62 544 and his factory gauge always reads on the high end.

Ignition timing could affect temp. While apart I checked true TDC and found my double groove bottom pulley (had ARA A/C since new) off a bit. I marked correct TDC and set 12 deg BTDC. Total advance at 3000 rpm ~ 33 deg. All sounds good to me. Doesn't ping. Dwell about 57 deg.
In fact the engine runs great just a little too hot unless I go by the thermostat housing temp, then it is in spec.