I installed a temp gauge in my 63 409 Biscayne this weekend. Then I asked myself, "What the heck is the normal operating temp range for this engine?"
Dan Fults
Dan Fults
Water temp question
- Thread starter W-motorhead
- Start date
Hard to say I think Dan. Depends on the type of engine, the performance you intend to get out of it and the fuel economy you want to get. My engine likes running about 170-175 degrees. Engine feels snappy and makes good power. At say 190, it doesn't run as well, less throttle response and a bit harder to start. I suspect underhood temps in general play a huge role in how these engines run. Hard to get the hot air out with a flat hood. When we dyno'd my engine at Tony Shaffer's, he keeps the water temp low
Mine likes to run at 150-160. Hot day in traffic it runs around 180-210, but you can feel the power drain away. This time of the year it takes a while to get to 160 where the thermostat is. Another thing is the verify the gauge to a reliable source like a thermometer or infra-red gun.