1) get a big box 2) pull off all non-stock parts off engine/compartment DROP IN BOX 3) remove water pump DROP IN BOX 4) remove thermostat DROP IN BOX 5) Purchase new parts: water pump, thermostat (160), plates 6) Purchase/acquire: factory clutch fan or flex fan, stock radiator shroud
This is a min configuration that should solve the problem. BTW: you can leave the t-stat out for max cooling if you like. T-stats stuck shut will over heat your car; stuck open don't hurt the system from an overheating issue.
Love da blue
Good luck!
Engine Test Stand Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLwoxyUwptUcdqEb-o2ArqyiUaHW0G_C88 restoring my 1968 Firebird 400 HO convertible (Firedawg) 1965 Pontiac Catalina Safari Wagon 389 TriPower (Catwagon) 1999 JD AWS LX Lawn tractor 17hp (my daily driver) 2006 Sequoia 2017 Murano (wife's car) 202? Electric car 203? 68 Firebird /w electric engine 2007 Bayliner 175 runabout /w 3.0L Mercuiser__________________________________________________________