Ideal coolant temperature?

[Jefe]

Technically what is the best temperature for power on the LS1 engine? I have heard hotter is better, not to exceed say 220, and cooler is better, around 178 degrees. I'm looking for numbers from assorted dyno runs if you have them. Currently have a 178 degree in my 99, with fan set accordingly, but once it has reached full operating temperatures I am indicating 194 degrees on the guage and the display. Again, I'm just trying to find out which is better technically.

Jefe

 

[02 C-5]

When I was at the track , 1/4 mile . The engine was at 190 than 195 , as it got hotter I ran slower . Once I got over 205 to 218 my times where 2 tenths slower . I did not have enough time to wait for it to cool back down . At the end of my run the temp would be at 195 but by the time I went through staging it would be hot again .
Thanks ,
Joe

 

[les]

I installed a 160 stat last summer. It made a big difference in power. Now that the weather is cooler, the car breaks loose real quick. Might not do well in burning off the exhaust gases but I do like the power.

 

[JBsC5]

I installed a Vinci 178 degree thermostat which I am very pleased with. It keeps the coolant for the most part..in the range of 185 to 187 ...

I believe that to be the best range for making power.

in heavy bumper to bumper the coolant level goes up as it would with a stock thermostat..but I feel thats ok..

I'd recommend the Vinci 178 thermostat as a quality piece that works as intended.

 

[MoeJr]

My 84 runs best at 195-210. I find that any cooler than that and it just doesn't seem as snappy. C4's tend to run hot anyhow as my car gets to 230 in traffic then fan kicks on and brings it backl down to about 215 if I am still sitting/ Running down the road though I always stay about 200-210.

 

[TODD L GRIFFITH]

Coolant Temp.

I've done the coolant by-pass, installed the Jet stageII chip, relocated the MAF, and relocated a new recalibrated MAT sensor. After I installed these, I purchased the 160 degree powerstat. I consistantly run @ 172 degrees. When it is 90 ambient, I run 172, when it is 5 degrees above zero like now, I run 172 degrees. If I'm in stop and go traffic, it will jump to 190. I'm thinking of buying the new fan relay control to bring the fan start down to 180 or so. The dangers of running too cool could result in heavy condensing in the exhaust airstream. I've also removed the front plastic fog lamp inserts, and have cut away 75% of my radiator shroud. My 6" K&N conicle filter hangs down where air is available through the nose and from underneath. During a recent visit to my dealer to hang out for awhile, my dealer told me that they have had two brand new corvettes in with blown engines. One was a Z06. They injested water through the intake and blew the engine. Pretty scary with my setup. I've never gotten water in the intake. The reason they told me was due to a shield that was removed. Sounds like the puddle they went through also.

 

[les]

I wouldn't worry about it Todd, just stay out of the rain.:L Thats an expensive shop vac you got there:J :gap

 

[EHS]

Re: Coolant Temp.

...I've also removed the front plastic fog lamp inserts, and have cut away 75% of my radiator shroud. My 6" K&N conicle filter hangs down where air is available through the nose and from underneath. During a recent visit to my dealer to hang out for awhile, my dealer told me that they have had two brand new corvettes in with blown engines. One was a Z06. They injested water through the intake and blew the engine. Pretty scary with my setup...

Yes, Todd, it has and does happen. There are documented cases on this, and it is why Halltech no longer sells the "TRIC" system -- too much grief from water ingestion -- he will now suggest it for "race track use only" -- and presumably only dry racetracks.