Coolant port at back upper block to intake... purpose?

[OldRoller]

74 matching numbers engine. There is a small coolant port upper left side of the block, small line going to back side intake. My assumption (probably wrong) is this line allows coolant a return path to eliminate air pockets/hot spots when the heater valve is closed. I have seen some pictures that route the intake line to the water choke. 

 

I will be running coolant through the manifold on the 74. The 76 has both ports blocked sometime in its history. Looking for some clarification of the purpose to prevent any cooling issues.

 

Sometimes efforts to "clean" up the engine bay can circumvent engineers design and create problems. I bow to the vast knowledge of this group. 

In the meantime my coffee grows cold. 😎

Edited September 11, 2023 by OldRoller

[Russell74Fjord]

I believe that is to warm the intake manifold, fop those in a cold climate. Engine runs without it hooked up, may only be needed in cold areas. 

[tech71]

On my 76 with weber 32/36, that fitting is connected  to carb water choke assembly.

Edited September 11, 2023 by tech71

[TobyB]

water choke...

 

t

 

[John76]

6 hours ago, OldRoller said:

The 76 has both ports blocked

As noted, the small fittings on the intake manifold and the block are for plumbing a water choke.

If you don't have a water choke, connect both fittings with a short hose to help purge air and keep a bit more coolant circulating.

[jimk]

Manual choke cars had a plug in that place on the block.  So circulation isn't really needed.  Another hose, another  potential leak.  Plugs are another option.

[Son of Marty]

Plug part number 11111254189 washer 07119963073.

[OldRoller]

9 hours ago, TobyB said:

water choke...

Thanks all, another item of info from the Minds of the Vault. 

Cheers, beers on me 👍t