1938 Cadillac V16 - GM Heritage Center

Thermostatically controlled radiator shutters are
used on all Cadillacs and are rarely used on cars in
LaSalle's class. They provide more nearly uniform
Thermostatic
Radiator
Shutters
underhood temperature, regardless of weather conditions
for more efficient carburetion and economy than
can be obtained with the conventional circulation type
thermostat. With this latter type of control, water in
the engine is maintained at a high temperature by circulation
of the water through the engine alone, and not
through the radiator. The flow of air through the radiator,
however, is unrestricted. This wide variance between
engine and underhood air temperatures is detrimental
to carburetion, frequently causing carburetor
frosting in winter and also causing condensation of
moisture on the walls of the crankcase. Sludge forms
from this condensation, dilutes engine oil and may
score and wear vital engine parts.
Radiator shutters eliminate all of these inherent
weaknesses of the circulation thermostat and aid the
efficiency of Cadillac-LaSalle's positive crankcase
ventilating system.
Filler Cap
The radiator filler cap has a built-in pressure valve
which reduces loss of water or anti-freeze caused by
boiling. The boiling liquid cannot reach the radiator
REVISED 12-15.37