LRDG Pattern condensers

[Tony Smith]

Both types must be vented, steam will not "Flow" into a dead-end chamber.

The Radiator Cap is a pressurised type of only around 4psi. As this opens, the pipe and condensor can (if not vented) will equally pressurise to 4psi (or higher), and nothing will flow. With nothing flowing into the Can, it cannot reduce the temperature of something that is not in it. The coolant temp (and pressure) will continue to rise unless the cooling capacity of the radiator can maintain temps. Beside the Rad Cap, there is no other means to regulate or relieve pressure in the system.

While the Condensor Can primarily condenses steam back to water by filtering it below fluid level, it also contributes to cooling the steam/liquid by being remotely mounted from the engine bay. While the Condensor Can can get warm, I've never known them to be hot to touch, or as hot as the Radiator. I've never seen steam or coolant issuing from the vents.

Originally Posted by Charlie Down

So how does this system compare to later condensers on CMP trucks,..

Both Ford and Chev CMPs had Condensors from initial production ex Factory, they are not later than the 1533. While of a differing construction, both types work on the same principle of the inlet pipe from the radiator entering the tank below a fluid level to condense any steam and/or recover liquid coolant from the radiator.

As a curiosity, I see the tanks in both your photos have a filler using the cast brass caps from 2Gal POL Cans.