Questions and Answers
1965 Comet Overheating
Q. Hello, we have a 1965 Mercury Comet with an overheating problem. We have changed the thermostat, and it still overheats and boils over. There are no visible leaks and the radiator is okay. The engine is a 289, standard trans. Is there any web pages that would have the engine specs? The owners manual does not have the specs.
Thanks,
LarryA. I don't know of any web sites that has technical specs, but there is a Mercury Comet Car Club at Comet Club that should be able to supply you with any information you need about your car.
As for the overheating... that cooling system is pretty basic. If you know the radiator is good, then there is a blockage in the block. On a car this old I don't know if a reverse power flush will help, but it's worth a try. If not, the freeze plugs will have to be knocked out and the inside of the water jacket cleaned out manually.
I recommend a reverse power flush. If that doesn't help then take the radiator to a shop and have it rodded out. Popping out the freeze plugs is the last resort.
