Yeah the LT-1 engine does run hot. It was designed to. The hot engine light wont even come on until somewhere around 260'. But, I do believe that cleaning the debris from your radiator, and if youre a new owner a complete flush and refill is a good idea. At least you know where your at with that. As you noticed the car doesnt have a grille, it sucks the air in through the lower opening. I dont run a screen, I just check it occassionally. Its a good idea to replace broken or missing front air dams as well, they help with the airflow. Here are some comparable temps from my 92 Lt-1 from yesterday. Outside air temp was about 105, freeway driving 192' with air on. City driving, around 210. Now, I must admit I dont like to see those higher numbers either, and with the summer temps here in Phoenix exceeding 100 and topping out as much as 115, this is what I did to mine.
Installed a hypertech thermomaster ecm chip, installed the 165' thermostat that works with the programming of the chip, installed a new water pump, simply for peace of mind, as well as all new hoses. Flushed and refilled with a 60/40 blend of anti freeze, you have reduced cold weather protection running a higher percentage of anti freeze than water but, thats not an issue where I live. But you gain on the cooling ability. Also, I use redline water wetter. That stuff really works, it reduced my temp readings by 10'. Oh, I still hit 220-230 in redlight traffic on really hot days, but anything under a 100, I rarely see over 210.
Im sure I'll get smacked around a bit on this website for the lower t-stat as that is not what gm designed, but like I said, in conjunction with the programming of the chip it really worked and the car makes really good power.
