question on eng temp

[Georgej202]

What is the normal operating tempture on the c4 with a 350. The temp while in traffic went up to 215. Being a novice vette owner I thought that was a bit high... The analog gage was maxed but the didg gauge stated 215.

 

[Vettefan87]

I am not sure about the LT1, but on the L98, temps are supposed to be around 230. I think for the cars they are somewhat the same. I don't think you have anything to worry about. If you are conerned install a 180, or 160 degree thermostat, and that will decrease your temps while driving, but not in traffic.

 

[warren s]

It will cycle between 195 on 230 in traffic.

 

[WaveDoggie]

The LT1 Tstat is a 180, the fans regulate temp at low speed. A Standard brand # TS217 will replace the stocker and turn the fan on at~212 deg instead of 230

 

[c4cruiser]

Your observed temp is within the normal operating ranges for coolant. My 92 will run anywhere from 195 to 230 depending on ambient air temps and speed. The fans are controlled by the ECM based on input from coolant temp sensors.

The secondar fan should come on at around 228 and go off about 210-215. Also, turning the A/C on will force the secondary fan to run constantly and this will lower coolant temps.

C4's are "bottom breathers" in that all of the air for cooling is taken in from an opening below and behind the front license plate. It's important that any debris be kept from the radiator and A/C condensor. It's pretty common to find dirt and debris in there and that cuts the flow of air across the tubes. You can use a stream of water from a hose to remove the junk. Point the stream of water into the radiator from the fan shroud side and you will probably see all sort of junk flow out.

I'm not a real fan of using thermostats with lower opening temps to solve cooling problems. They open at lower temps which simply allows the coolant to flow earlier. If your cooling system has problems, a lower temp 'stat will not solve cooling issues. Old coolant, bad hoses, rust or corrosion in the system and radiators that are blocked must be dealt with to solve temp issues.

The auto factories design their motors to run hotter to help with emissions. The factory LT1 thermostat is a 195 degree stat.

 

[6speeder]

http://www.theherd.com/articles/lt1_cool.html