Will this damage anything?

Filter on upper radiator hose will be a great option for you.

Not alot of supporting info on forabodiesonly but I have personally used a basic cone screen inside the upper rad hose and trapped tons of crap that would have been clogging in the radiators on several vehicles.

http://www.fasterjags.com/Tefba.html

http://www.cal-mustang.com/GANO-COOLANT-FILTER-Clear-fits-1-58-ID-hose-P14369C1044.aspx

Would be great insurance when running a motor that could percolate out debris which has formed from sitting for years.

I would, If you can, run the coolant filter before running the car much. Then flush the cooling system several times consecutively with water. Clean the trap on the filter when it gets full of crap occasionally.


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