454 always over heating problems
Pro
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 710
Likes: 0
From: Northern Florida
I've owned a '70 LS-5 auto non A/C car all stock in the past. A sweat box in nice weather. Now have '72 L-48 converted to LS-5 auto, all GM still a bitch as far as comfort. like being in an oven. What was GM thinking? These cars are a joke as to drivers. ALLWAYS run hot even with all correct air dams,fan shrouds,seals, timing etc. I've seen many posts as to advance timing this, electric fans that, but still loads of problems. Bottom line TOO HOT!! By far the best driver was my base '72 L-48 4 sp roadster. Those that speak of pulling that non #'s 350 for a 454 or 427 I would offer a word of caution!
Opinions welcome. BB's are cool I guess but you WILL cook/bake or at the very least continually struggle to keep the temp down.
SW
Opinions welcome. BB's are cool I guess but you WILL cook/bake or at the very least continually struggle to keep the temp down.
SW
1. 3 or 4 row aluminum radiator that has very clean fins.
2. High performance water pump like a Stewart stage 3 or 4.
3. Absolutely clean cooling system .
4. ONLY enough anti freeze for the coldest of weather youre in, the rest distilled water with a bottle of Water Wetter by Redline.
5. Radiator seals in place .
6. Tight fitting fan shroud.
Ive never met anyone whos car overheated that followed this recipe.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 6,284
Likes: 1,170
From: Hermosa
Pro
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 672
Likes: 31
From: Rapid City South Dakota
Ive got a built 454 in my 1970 Coupe without a lick of overheating trouble...even on 90 f. days in traffic. Here are the absolute essentials you must have on such a big engine :
1. 3 or 4 row aluminum radiator that has very clean fins.
2. High performance water pump like a Stewart stage 3 or 4.
3. Absolutely clean cooling system .
4. ONLY enough anti freeze for the coldest of weather youre in, the rest distilled water with a bottle of Water Wetter by Redline.
5. Radiator seals in place .
6. Tight fitting fan shroud.
Ive never met anyone whos car overheated that followed this recipe.
1. 3 or 4 row aluminum radiator that has very clean fins.
2. High performance water pump like a Stewart stage 3 or 4.
3. Absolutely clean cooling system .
4. ONLY enough anti freeze for the coldest of weather youre in, the rest distilled water with a bottle of Water Wetter by Redline.
5. Radiator seals in place .
6. Tight fitting fan shroud.
Ive never met anyone whos car overheated that followed this recipe.
Last edited by lurch59; Oct 3, 2015 at 07:31 PM. Reason: clarity
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 2,091
Likes: 40
OP said he had a 72 SB corvette that was fairly comfortable to his liking .
Key here is .....he SAID "Roadster "
A BB roadster , is also less harsh with top down driving to let the heat escape .
I usually tell people who buy C3 and aren't familiar with the heat levels in these cars.....look for a convertible .
I'm happy with my BB convertible . .....pipes on the outside help too
Key here is .....he SAID "Roadster "
A BB roadster , is also less harsh with top down driving to let the heat escape .
I usually tell people who buy C3 and aren't familiar with the heat levels in these cars.....look for a convertible .
I'm happy with my BB convertible . .....pipes on the outside help too
