heating problem small block 350-180
i have a 1976 coupe 350/180 automatic - when i first got it the temp would run just below 200 from drivers seat. all of a sudden it started going above 200 just a tad -tried an aluminum radiator -fan clutch-fan-timing-the aluminum radiator helped just a tad-not much (running with a 160 thermastat) is this normal (nature of the beast) - i want to drive it but i hate to worry about overheating. any ideas?? thanks steve benson i had it judged at a regional level - i was missing a decal in the glove box(center compartment in the rear) ive talked to several corvette shops and everyone stated that 76 didn't have a maintenance sticker their. - thanks steve benson - first time on this site - read about 300 or so remarks - what knowledge is floating around out there - ncrs keep up the good work.
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Re: heating problem small block 350-180
Stephen-----
Based upon what you describe, I don't think you have an overheating problem. You can expect somewhat higher operating temperatures when the ambient temperature increases. 200 degrees F or a tad over is well within normal operating temperatures. In fact, your engine was originally equipped with a 195 degree thermostat so, with that thermostat, the engine would never go below 195 degrees F once it warmed up.
By the way, I do not recommend the use of a 160 degree thermostat for your application. Remember, a thermostat only controls the LOWEST temperature an engine will operate at, not the highest. You don't want the engine to operate at 160 degrees at times (like on a long downhill grade in cool ambient temperatures) and then swing up to 200 degrees (like when the downhill grade turns into a long uphill grade). I would recommend using nothing lower than a 180 degree thermostat.
I don't think the center compartment door on a 1976 used any decals on the inside. I'm not 100% sure, though.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: heating problem small block 350-180
You don't mean the jacking instructions in the door of the passenger side, do you?Comment
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