[53buick]

i have a 53 buick with a 350 sbc.. im have this reoccuring problem with the engine sputtering and putting off lots of fumes...and then dying shortly after....first i thought it was the ole points ignition...so i got a new HEI,,and a new electric fuel pump...still had problems....summer came along and the car started overheating....so i got a new 4 core radiator...i also have an 18 inch electric fan mounted to the front.....still overheating....still sputtering and dying....tried all the thermostats.....currently using a195 degree stat...looked at the fuel filter and realized the gas tank was rusting apart and the filter was plugged with rust....so i assumed the carb also had alot of rust in it also......so i got a new carb....edelbrock 600 another electric fuel pump new line with 2 filters and a fuel cell......now im running clean gas...and it runs just as ****ty as ever before.......could this problem be related to a cracked head or head gasket?...........my timing and air fuel ratio was checked and set by a mechanic......im out of ideas...and running out of money!!!!......i need help!!

[HotRodMan]

On a cold engine, take the cap off the radiator and fill to the very top with water. Start the car, watch the radiator with the cap off to see if you are getting any bubbles in the water. Watch it until the motor reaches operating temperature. If you are getting bubbles, there is your overheating problem. Usually caused by a leaking head gasket, but can be a cracked head or block. Let me now what the result of this test is.