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07-25-2017, 08:06 AM | #1 |
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Running engine without coolant
How long is it safe to run a Model A engine without coolant on a test stand?
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07-25-2017, 08:14 AM | #2 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
How long is to long?
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07-25-2017, 08:30 AM | #3 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
not very long !!
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07-25-2017, 08:38 AM | #4 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
I build engines. If one of my customers were to do so, it would void my warranty.
To answer your question.. I would be a bit nervous beyond 30 seconds if run at an idle. Really nervous if run beyond a minute. But I should clarify; I am kind of a nervous guy when doing something really stupid. Oops...I should be more careful as I likely offended someone with my humor....so: Sorry! Leads me to ask: Are you asking because you are just pondering the question or plan to or did? Don't do it. Good Day! Last edited by Dave in MN; 07-25-2017 at 08:45 AM. |
07-25-2017, 08:41 AM | #5 | |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Quote:
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07-25-2017, 08:58 AM | #6 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
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If done by accident a minute or less probably ok Someone showed run an engine without a radiator, but he had coolant in his engine, and he caught heck for doing so ! He did have a temperature gun and was nervously keeping an eye on the temperature
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07-25-2017, 09:06 AM | #7 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
I've started and run engines for short periods of time with no problems. But only enough to see it run, then shut it down. I won't keep them going for more than 30-40 seconds. People don't realize that the first thing to go is probably the water pump. This is why people start outboards in garbage cans filled with water. The same applies to pressure washers. If you have to start one without a hose connected, shut it down as soon as it is verified that it runs. you can wreck the pump but the engine will still run nicely. Not a great Idea, only do it when you absolutely have to!
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07-25-2017, 09:09 AM | #8 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Just remember when that engine gets hot that will take out the rings, maybe the clinder walls, the head. rings over heat losses it tempper. This take out you piston walls. The head gets to hot and worps. You just took out your engine. NO WATER<NO ENGINE.
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07-25-2017, 09:18 AM | #9 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Yes, this was in a chassis that I bought and the radiator has a good size hole in it. I wanted to see if the engine would run, so I started it and ran it for a short period. Far less than a minute, but wasn't sure how long was safe if I want to do some fine tuning adjustement. Sounds like it's best to fill the cooling system, even if it leaks, to run it.
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07-25-2017, 09:49 AM | #10 | |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Quote:
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07-25-2017, 10:06 AM | #11 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Beginning of a Self Test:
1. Are "all" moving parts everywhere well oiled with proper lubrication? 2. Did you hand crank this engine for quite a few revolutions where "everything" felt normal and you did not hear a big "clunk" as the engine rotation was halted? 3. Are you sure "everything" was properly installed and lubricated such that when firing up the engine for a few seconds, (maybe 2 or 3), this trial will not damage anything? 4. Will this short engine operation void "any" warranty? 5. Will your wife file for divorce if your temporary gas can leaks, the engine explodes, and your garage and house burns down along with your vehicles -- with or without insurance? 6. Are you willing to accept any losses or damages after starting this procedure? 7. No doubt many previous Model A owners have tried running an engine without coolant before for 2 or 3 seconds in days gone by; however, above are just a few "Self Test" questions only "you" can honestly answer. 8. Others may want to sincerely suggest a few more "Self Test" questions or what ever but there are always risks involved. Hope this helps. Last edited by H. L. Chauvin; 07-25-2017 at 10:12 AM. Reason: typo |
07-25-2017, 12:31 PM | #12 | |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Quote:
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07-25-2017, 12:31 PM | #13 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Back in the late 50's I had a 29 sport coupe (100$) and no money for a/freeze. no license (too young) and would come every day from school (in the cold winter), start the car and go back and forth in the driveway for 10-15 min............Warmer weather and water, no problems. Guess I was lucky.................FWIW
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07-25-2017, 02:10 PM | #14 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Anyone have a crappy old engine with a cracked block willing to run it dry so we all know???
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07-25-2017, 02:38 PM | #15 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
un related vehicle. but jet skis that get their cooling from the jet and the manuals say 30 seconds out of water. they are a hotter engine but i would say 30 seconds is safe and any more could be dangerous.
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07-25-2017, 02:52 PM | #16 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
IF you absolutely have to run it, at least cap the input on the side and fill the engine with water.
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07-25-2017, 05:52 PM | #17 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
And put your hand on the sides of the cylinders just under the water jacket. When the cast iron feels warm, shut it off. Internal temperatures will be higher than you feel on the outside and it's on the inside that damage is done.
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07-25-2017, 08:22 PM | #18 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Never, Never, Never, Never.
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07-25-2017, 08:46 PM | #19 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
How big is the hole in the radiator? If you are going to junk it or have it re-cored anyway use it to test the engine by taking a pair of needle nose pliers and pinch off the tubes above and below the hole and use as is. Once again how big is the hole?
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07-25-2017, 09:50 PM | #20 |
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Re: Running engine without coolant
Remember, any time you run the engine for less than 30 minutes, you have just put a lot of condensation in the engine, and especially around the pistons and rings. I still have two stuck engines because I only ran them for about 10 minutes back in the 70's, then tried again 6 months later, and they were both very locked up.
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