In a message dated 10/14/01 10:01:57 PM, larry_avery.johnson@SYMPATICO.CA
writes:

<< What is the harm of running the coolant system with no pressure? I know
that the
coolant will boil at a lower temperature but that's not likely during a
Canadian
winter (is it?). I'd like to limp through until spring. Any suggestions/advice
would be greatly appreciated. >>

Larry,

Working from a memory aged like a fine wine for 35 years, I believe the
specific heat of a coolant varies directly with pressure in a closed system.
But, wait.  You no longer have a closed system.  This setup is malo, Larry,
and it is going to strain, and perhaps ruin, an engine that already is
compromised by age.  You might be able to limp into spring by keeping a
worrisome eye on the temp gauge and a gerry can of coolant at the ready, then
again, you might end up walking into spring.  You know what you have to do.

Rich