[OBNXUS67]

What is a good operating temp and what is considered "overheating" or a danger level for a small block with alumin. heads. Like my set up?

Also, does it matter where the sensor is plugged in at? mine is at the front of the block.

Tony

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obnoxious 67 camaro under construction. TH350/383 stroker w/ aluminum Edlebroc RPM heads,cam, and carb.

 

[Joshua Leslie]

well, my car runs at a constant 220, and that is fine.
I wouldnt go any higher than that though.

When my car hits about 250 it starts runningl like crap.

 

[JohnZ]

Normal operating temperature is generally considered to be 180-200; an engine that runs consistently at 220 (if 220 has been verified by an I.R. gun vs. the gauge) is operating on the ragged edge, with no margin left, and its cooling system needs some attention before the block and heads are damaged.

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JohnZ
'69 Z28 Fathom Green

 

[Dino]

I agree, 220 is too hot. Big blocks were even designed to run at 180+/-. I would examine your radiator and then consider water pump, water w/coolant and water-weter, and a lower temp thermostat. Not in that order per se.

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68 RS/SS 396/375
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[Joshua Leslie]

its a 3rd gen trans am, new water pump, new radiator, 180 degree t-stat.

Even the original 305 ran about 220, there is just not enough air flow to the radiator to run it any cooler.
And yes, the air dam is in tact.

 

[blbcamaro]

On the freeway it should run cooler from the air dam pushing all that cold air up there...mine stays at about 150* on the freeway. In the stop and go or traffic if it gets too hot I turn on the A/C because it'll switch on the fan and bring the temp down about 308. The fans don't come on by themselves until 240, which is almost too late...