SHE IS HOT!
Getting ready for another season, pulled the 409/Chevy II down from the rack and she growled right back up. Engine heat is my enemy because of the build. Who puts a hot 409 in a 65 Chevy II/Nova? Me. After last years great runs down the strip I know the drive train can take it but she still is running way hot.
Have it correctly jetted for the Reno altitude, timing, etc. both 4 barrel carbs settings are good. But due to engine clearance issues I can't put a big radiator in her. And have had to run without hood due to lack of heat dissipation. Reno is 4500', low humidity and during summer gets as hot as a butt after eating ghost peppers.
Thinking of:
Pulling thermostat out completely and/or running restrictors (only run it during summer and there is no heater core).
I have the feeling the water pump is pushing the coolant too fast through radiator to transfer heat.
Putting large enough louvers in hood big enough to help vent heat out during idle/slow speed.
The Chassisworks engine solid side compartments need cutouts (maybe with fans) to help push hot air out.
We will be trying to squeeze in another after market radiator with pulling zoomie electric fans within a shroud.
I run just distilled water with a wetter agent.
I have a 5 lb of engine in a 4 lb engine compartment and need help from the 348/409 team on ideas that would help cool this beast down.