Coolant Temp
Thread Starter
Racer
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 277
Likes: 0
From: Portsmouth NH
Coolant Temp
I know this has been discussed before on this forum but I could still use some clarification on what the coolant temp should be on a 1994 LT1. My owners manual says that my thermostat is 180 but I am not sure if that is what it is. When I drive on a warm day say in the 80's my temp gauge will read about 196 to 198. When I slow down or come to a stop the temp will rise to 200 to 204 but once I start moving again it goes down. Is this normal for 180 thermostat? Or could I have a 195 thermostat? Is the range of temps I have described ok for my engine or is it running to hot? Appreciate any thoughts or suggestions.
Thanks
Bob
Thanks
Bob
Burning Brakes
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 1,161
Likes: 0
From: Orangeburg, NY
It sounds normal. A thermostat is designed to open at a certain temperature (165, 180, 195 etc.), which is not necessarily the same as the operating temperature. The numbers you have described are normal.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 17,298
Likes: 33
From: The Top of Utah
Originally Posted by 89 Bob L
It sounds normal. A thermostat is designed to open at a certain temperature (165, 180, 195 etc.), which is not necessarily the same as the operating temperature. The numbers you have described are normal.
The thermostat only sets the minimum operating temp. Once the thermostat opens, it has no more influence over the engine temps. The purpose of the thermostar is to insure quick, thorough warm ups, and to prevent the engine from operating too coolly.
Your temps seem slightly lower than normally reported. Keep the maintenance up and everything will be fine.
RACE ON!!!
