I know this isn't a automotive forum, but I have tried to register at "Maverick.com", and it ain't happening. I know there's an immense amount of knowlege here on this site, not only for our bikes, but for very simple internal combustion engine problems, like Im having. My son's 1974 Ford Maverick, with the 200 "6 cylinder" is kicking my butt. The waterpump went out on it, simple enough, right? NOPE...Not for me...I've been hexxed by this car since I've got it for him. I removed the water pump, figured I would change the thermostat while Im at it (big mistake), and snapped one of the bolts holding the thermostat housing to the engine, but was fortunate enough to have enough of the studd sticking out that a torch and vice grips got that out. Replaced thermostat AND water pump, reinstalled radiator and fan after pressure washing the inside of the engine to flush her out real good (2500 psi). Started her up, and suddenly a strange "gurgling/knocking" sound starts, and steam everywhere. I look inside, and the oil light is flickering, with a slight pinging coming from the engine. I realize the head has been warped, or head gasket blown, somehow, as there appears to be water in the oil. I changed the oil out, new filter and did compression check..all cylinders are 120-150, so thats good news. She runs good for 5 to 6 minutes, oil light now out and not flickering anymore,then all hello breaks loose. Spraying antifreeze and steam everywhere, like the radiator is being super pressurized. I know the thermostat went in the same direction it came out, and I can't understand why its pressurizing and overheating so much after running for such a short time. Radiator definitely leaking (no idea why, it was'nt leaking before I started), so it's off to the radiator shop this morning. How can such a simple engine be so difficult? Maybe Im missing something here..any ideas would be appreciated...