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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1954 Pontiac
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Question
How can I tell if I have stuck rings in my 1954 pontiac straight 8? I finally got her running and took a spin around the Block. But I am getting a lot of blow by from the blow by line. Also after the engine heats up she won't start till she cools down. I think I may be in for a complete rebuild. This car set for almost 4 years. I did put stop leak in to fix a radiator leak and I think this may have gummed up the thermostat as she also is running hot. Also are there any resources out there where I could even pick up the parts for a rebuild? Any help is greatly appreciated.
The blow by and the fact that hot start is a problem tell me that the rings are probably well past prime. If you do engine work please have the radiator boiled out and flow checked by a competent radiator shop. parts are available. latch on to a copy of Hemmings Motor news the old car hobbies classified bible or check www.hemmings.com.
Brad
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Answers by Expert:
Brad Sears
Expertise
All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.
Experience
Automotive tech instructor.
Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's.
Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's
TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated.
Auto instructor for the following companies:
Fram
Autolyte
Holly
Carter
AMF
Ford Motor
University Of Conn
Blue Hills Technical School
Sugar River Technical Center
Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.
Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.
Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember.
Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.
Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.
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