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Old 06-13-2017, 12:49 AM   #1
Sid
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Default 1955 Ford radiator cap

Does anyone know the maximum pressure cap to run on a 55 Fairlane radiator? Auto parts house books say 13 lbs but that seems too high. I was thinking they didn't go to 13 lbs until about mid 60's. I was thinking between 4-7 lbs. for a 55 or 56 Fairlane.
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Old 06-13-2017, 06:20 AM   #2
willowbilly3
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Default Re: 1955 Ford radiator cap

C&G Ford parts lists a 14#. I run a 13 on my Y block and everything seems koposetic.
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Old 06-13-2017, 10:46 AM   #3
Ole Don
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Default Re: 1955 Ford radiator cap

I used a 13 pound new style cap with an overflow tank. It worked fine.
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Old 06-13-2017, 11:08 AM   #4
dmsfrr
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Default Re: 1955 Ford radiator cap

The parts book I use for my '55 says 13 lbs, and also has another 'replacement' at 7 lbs.
The increased pressure raises the boiling point slightly and helps if the engine runs toward the hot side, a bit less likely to boil over. If the cooling system could be in better shape a lower cap pressure can postpone some leaks.

.

Last edited by dmsfrr; 06-13-2017 at 10:47 PM.
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Old 06-13-2017, 03:05 PM   #5
bobss396
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Default Re: 1955 Ford radiator cap

If the radiator looks decent, go with the 13. I have a 16 pound cap on my new Champion radiator.
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Old 06-13-2017, 09:45 PM   #6
Ford Freak
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Default Re: 1955 Ford radiator cap

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I ran a #13 on my '57 312 w/ an overflow tank . Worked great !
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Old 06-14-2017, 05:56 AM   #7
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Default Re: 1955 Ford radiator cap

13 on the Champion (new).
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