1941 cooling

[TomC750]

I have the running of my '41 Merc pretty well sorted out. Turned out I had both a bad condenser as well as carb issues. But now I have other concerns.

When running it a while in 80 or more temps, the temp gauge is 3/4 the way up the scale and the oil pressure is 20SI cruising and only 3PSI or so at idle. When I let it set for a short while it is around 10 PSI at idle. The result is the same whether running 30wt or 15-40. At cooler temperatures with temp gauge in the middle the oil pressure holds up better. The oil pressure readings are the same with the stock gauge or a mechanical one.

So, I am wondering this: Given that 41's are subject to cooling issues due to fan being positioned low on radiator, might I be better off by bringing the coolant temp down to start with? I think a good solution for this would be an electric fan, which I would rather not do, as it would likely necessitate changing to 12V. Open to ideas.

By the way the engine seems to be in good shape with no smoke or oil burning. It is very quiet.