engine temp for a 351W

TonyMadrid · #1 (**permalink**) 09-16-2003, 06:37 PM

What is the target idling and running engine temp for a 351W? I have a 351W that's 30 over with Edelbrock performer RPM heads & cam, MSD Ignition, BG Road Demon carb on an Edelbrock Performer RPM Intake. Also using an AFCO radiator, derale 2700 cfm fan and an Edelbrock water pump.

With a 160 stat it idles at around 190 degrees. and that's with the fan running and under no load.

GeorgiaSnake · #2 (**permalink**) 09-16-2003, 07:30 PM

Tony my 396 stroker oil temp runs about between 150 - 190 and the water temp 150 to 180. I have a 160 stat. I leave the twin pusher fans off until I come to a stop or I'm crawling along in traffic. It did run a bit hotter 190 - 210 before I got the right radiator cap and installed a catch can. These are temps I have experienced this summer during breakin. I will block off the oil cooler when the weather turns cooler.

Randy

Roscoe · #3 (**permalink**) 09-17-2003, 10:17 AM

Tony,
I running a similar engine, 40 over, and use a 180 thermostat. Without the fan running it hangs between 165 and 180 while driving. In traffic I put the fan on and it maintains the same range.
Roscoe

Mr.Fixit · #4 (**permalink**) 09-17-2003, 10:19 AM

Use a 180 thermostat, not a 160.

HighPlainsDrifter · #5 (**permalink**) 09-17-2003, 10:20 AM

Tony,
Your temp seems a little high to me.
I would check and see if your water pump is the correct year[new serpentine pumps run backwards]
The easiest way to check this is to loosen your rad cap ,when engine is cool, and start engine. Place rags around cap and slowly lift off and see if water is being pumped towards rad when thermostat opens.,if not then you have the wrong pump.
Another thing to check is the heater hoses. Do you have a manual or vacuum valve inline? If not then the water circulation will bypass the rad and heat the engine also.
Good Luck,
Perry.