new c4 owner temperature question??
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 155
Likes: 2
From: Columbiana AL
new c4 owner temperature question??
While driving my new acquisition home (1984 cfi auto 104k miles) I was sitting @ a traffic light and the temp crept up to 225 deg before the light turned green. While underway it stayed stone cold @ 196. Is 225 okay? It seems too hot, but a few threads have mentioned that their fan does not kick on until 227-230.
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 155
Likes: 2
From: Columbiana AL
I have built a couple of hot rods and used a universal fan temp switch. It costs only 20.00 at the auto stores. It is adjustable and comes with a relay. Maybe I'll add one of those bc it seems too hot to me as well.
This link is an example from Jegs
http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/52125...oductId=943351
This link is an example from Jegs
http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/52125...oductId=943351
Racer
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 292
Likes: 1
From: Appleton, Wisconsin Boston originally - North End
I started these threads a couple weeks after I bought my '84 in July and was concerned about operating temps - EXACTLY what happenned to you motorjunkie.
initial thread: http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-t...post1571636140
followup after install: (better thread - after the fact): http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-t...n-an-84-a.html
I have a stock '84 with 50,000 miles and trust me:
The fan turns on more frequently and keeps the engine running cooler - AUTOMATICALLY.
I swear by this $40 mod (chemical engineer by trade with a heat transfer background).
Being in plastics also, the lower temps will perserve your wiring and connectors too (for awhile longer anyhow).
Engine seems to perform better also. And the fan is NOT on all the time!!!
Hopes this helps a fellow '84 owner - keep in touch.
Dave H. dchoran@athenet.net
initial thread: http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-t...post1571636140
followup after install: (better thread - after the fact): http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c4-t...n-an-84-a.html
I have a stock '84 with 50,000 miles and trust me:
The fan turns on more frequently and keeps the engine running cooler - AUTOMATICALLY.
I swear by this $40 mod (chemical engineer by trade with a heat transfer background).
Being in plastics also, the lower temps will perserve your wiring and connectors too (for awhile longer anyhow).
Engine seems to perform better also. And the fan is NOT on all the time!!!
Hopes this helps a fellow '84 owner - keep in touch.
Dave H. dchoran@athenet.net
Last edited by dchoran; Nov 26, 2009 at 05:26 AM.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 5,858
Likes: 7
From: Santa Maria CA
I have built a couple of hot rods and used a universal fan temp switch. It costs only 20.00 at the auto stores. It is adjustable and comes with a relay. Maybe I'll add one of those bc it seems too hot to me as well.
This link is an example from Jegs
http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/52125...oductId=943351
This link is an example from Jegs
http://www.jegs.com/i/JEGS/555/52125...oductId=943351
http://www.mamotorworks.com/corvette-3-138-944.html
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 17,298
Likes: 33
From: The Top of Utah
Another idea is a lower temp fan switch, but there is no need for an expensive "kit". A switch can be had at any auto parts store for ~$10.00. A word of caution, especially with the stock 195° thermostat, be careful to avoid a switch with too low of a fan "Off" temp. If the switch will shut the fan off at 185° for instance, the engine will never cool to the cut off temp and cause the fan to run constantly once it starts. That is a waste of gasoline, fan motor life, and an annoyance. Regardless of the stat, a 185° fan off temp is too low. You don't need a fan at that low a temp.
RACE ON!!!
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 155
Likes: 2
From: Columbiana AL
Thanks everyone. I was not aware that the ecm did not control the fan on 84 models. My oil temp is higher than the coolant. if my coolant is 196 cruising then my oil temp says it is 230. Is this correct?
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Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 9,226
Likes: 9
From: Irvine Ca
^^That sounds right for the Oil Temps
It may be a good idea for you to perform some preventative maintenance to the Cooling system.
I also have an '84 and after I took care of all the cooling components, my car never saw those types of temps again. Even on 90° + days in stop and go traffic (only gets to about 219°
My situation was extreme due to the Water pump failing and then the radiator splitting...but after I replace all those components the temps were fantastic afterward.
I'll not suggest changing the WP, but I would say to flush the system and pull the radiator and have it boiled out at a shop.
Plus if you pull the radiator, you'll see tons of trash in between the condenser and radiator.....that is a 6-8 month cleaning item.....Cut your radiator shroud when you have it off. You are cutting it so that next time you can remove it in a way whereas you don't need to take the hoses off in order to lift the shroud.......makes the job as simple as taking out the ~20 screws that hold in place.
It may be a good idea for you to perform some preventative maintenance to the Cooling system.
I also have an '84 and after I took care of all the cooling components, my car never saw those types of temps again. Even on 90° + days in stop and go traffic (only gets to about 219°
My situation was extreme due to the Water pump failing and then the radiator splitting...but after I replace all those components the temps were fantastic afterward.
I'll not suggest changing the WP, but I would say to flush the system and pull the radiator and have it boiled out at a shop.
Plus if you pull the radiator, you'll see tons of trash in between the condenser and radiator.....that is a 6-8 month cleaning item.....Cut your radiator shroud when you have it off. You are cutting it so that next time you can remove it in a way whereas you don't need to take the hoses off in order to lift the shroud.......makes the job as simple as taking out the ~20 screws that hold in place.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 17,298
Likes: 33
From: The Top of Utah
Maintenance is the key to keeping the cooling system working at it's full capacity. If you are cruising down the highway at 196° with the stock 195° stat, your cooling system seems to be working well. My guess is that the boiling out of the radiator may not be needed, but since the car is new to you, pulling the radiator to check for debris, and to clean out from between the radiator and the condenser is an excellent suggestion. You may be surprised at what you find. Air flow is the key to keeping the coolant temps under control. With the debris removed, air flow at about 30-35 mph should keep your temps in line. In stop & go traffic and at stop lights, the fan will keep the temps in check if the cooling system is in good shape. I flush my my cooling system and change my antifreeze every two to three years max. And when I flush, I spend a lot of time and do a super thorough job.
My oil temp will usually run 230° - 235° once completely warmed up.
RACE ON!!!
