Normal running temperature on a 428CJ

Robert T. Faust · #1 (**permalink**) 06-10-2002, 02:43 PM

What is the normal running temp on a 428CJ. I've a fresh engine, new radiator and a Vintage Air 16 inch "S"fan. I thought this was great, which runs about 200 to 210. I was under the impression this was an acceptable temp for a big block, however I've been getting mixed reactions. Thought I'd put it out to the experts "What should be normal, exceptable, and finally too hot"? Thanks in advance. This is a great site for information, I've learned alot from this website and appreciate having access to all the expertise within this group.

cobish · #2 (**permalink**) 06-10-2002, 07:40 PM

I am runnig a 460 stroker, and my temps. run about 100 deg C, on water,about 212 deg F, 110 deg C oil temp, about 230 deg F,
about 70 to 30 psig oil press, depending on acceleration.
Some may thing oil temp is to hot, but oil does not break down until 360 to 450 deg F, then of course the bearings aregone, melted.
Any other thoughts on this?

Scott Smith · #3 (**permalink**) 06-11-2002, 11:16 AM

Robert:

Depending of course on ambient temperature, driving conditions, etc. my 428 runs between 70 and 80 deg C. My engine builder, Jeff Lawrence Racing, says 100+ deg C is way too hot.

SCOBRAC · #4 (**permalink**) 06-11-2002, 10:39 PM

185 on a spring day 200-210 in traffic on a 100 degree day..
180 thermostat.

Clois Harlan · #5 (**permalink**) 06-12-2002, 07:23 AM

I am with Michael mine seems to run about the same except we haven't had a 100 degree day yet but last week we were in the 90's and I was ok until I got stuck at a stop light for two cycles. Temp ran up to about 210.

As long as I am moving everything is ok----stop lights and heavy traffic scare the ship out of me.

WYT VNM · #6 (**permalink**) 06-12-2002, 07:34 AM

Make sure you verify your temp accuracy. Normal build 428 runs best above 170, but not healthy over 195 for cruising. I run a 180 therm and mine never goes above 190 (even hard running) unless in STOP AND GO TRAFFIC. When I see the temp at 200 I head for the open road, or shut down because it will only continue to go up in traffic.

Robert T. Faust · #7 (**permalink**) 06-12-2002, 09:53 AM

Thanks, you guys made my day, guess I'm running okay. Like I said about this site, it is a great information resource.

dscott · #8 (**permalink**) 06-12-2002, 02:46 PM

A note on running hot in traffic. The only fan I've found that works is the Spal. I have yet to find anything that won't stay cool with their fans. I have a local guy with a 70 blown Cuda with 1050hp running just a spal and it never gets hot. I have a Cobra in my shop now with a stroked 427 FE and it runs all summer without ever getting hot. These are the best fans on the market. I use their 16" puller up to about 450hp. Above that or on the big blocks I use their dual 11". They draw very high amps so a separate relay circuit needs to be added. If your car stays cool down the road and gets hot in traffic then the fan is the problem, you're just not moving enough air. Give them a try, I've been using them for about 7 years now.
Don

Jack21 · #9 (**permalink**) 06-12-2002, 07:32 PM

An added note to this on stop n go traffic, something DC has plenty of. 180 deg thermostat seems to be OK for year round use. Temp needle stays between 175 and 185 cruising. The fan sender turns the fan on at 205, and off at 185, so the fan rarely comes on when cruising, even in the summer.

Put a fan override switch on the dash so you can leave the fan on when you get stuck in traffic, particularly in hot weather to keep airflow through the radiator and your temp in the 175 - 185 range. The fan will cycle without your help, but you have an extra margin of safety from overheating controling the fan yourself.