350 runs at 160
 

Finally got around to installing a aftermarket temp gauge. It is a mechanical gauge though not a very expensive one.

My 1968 C10 truck runs at 160 degrees. The truck runs pretty good. It is a mildly modded 350. Started with a GM Mexican new 350 long block. Installed the Summit iron fulie heads. They were supposed to be 73 CC. They have heart shaped chambers. I used a thin gasket sprayed with that copper stuff to be sure they sealed. I forgot the flat tappet cam specs but around 470- 80 lift with 1:6 roller rockers. RPM air gap, Holley 770, hooker long tubes. Hugh’s 2300 stall. Turbo 400. Shift kit installed.

Anyhow is that a little cool to be running at 160 if the gauge is accurate?

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

I'd guess an inaccurate gauge.
You're allowed to use the internet. https://www.google.com/search?q=350+engine+thermostat
I once read engine oil needs to be above 165F to be effective.
The thermostat is a temperature controlled valve. It opens and closes around the rated temp. It never tries to keep the temp at any temperature.

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

What thermostat do you have in it? Have you checked it with a non-contact thermometer? They're pretty cheap these days, under $20 at Amazon.

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

I’ll use my laser temp gauge to verify.

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

It says Equus or IEquus on the gauge. I actually bought it just for a brass fitting I needed to hook up the temp gauge on a run in stand. I was starting up a new Pontiac 468 to eventually put in my 75 TA on that run in stand.

The factory temp gauge does not work in my Chevy truck.

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

If the gauge is wrong, you can put any name on it. It still doesn't get more accurate.
Factory gauges typically say cold or hot indicating a general condition.
Measure the temp if its a concern,

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

Replace thermostat with a 195 and see what happens. Possible the existing one stuck open.

But for most SBCs, 160 is too cold. 195 is the OEM for most.

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

This hi-perfomance job would not let me fully warm up my small block in California winter. I googled a bit about it and that seems to be "a thing" with this type.. https://www.summitracing.com/parts/m...hoCHd8QAvD_BwE so buyer beware

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

Yeah. Definitely put a laser temp gauge on it first to see

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

You could do a quick test by popping the sending unit, getting a good ground wire connected to the truck somewhere that you will tough to the threads of the sending unit to facilitate the ground it will want - personally, I'd strip the sensor end of the ground you will be using for this test as long as possible so you can just wrap it around the sending unit for this test. Then i would get a good insulated cup of water verified with an accurate thermometer to be at the normal operating temperature you are wanting/anticipating this engine producing based on what you know about the thermostat. Have either a helper check the gauge for you with the truck running or develop some means of holding the sending units sensor in the water while you run check the gauge. If it is off, you have your answer. If not, I would check the low and high end of the gauge for their accuracy as well using the same technique before I decided to leave it installed. I am a tinkerer in my putting era; so, I would be happy to spend the time to do this test. Depending on how you value your time, it might be easier just to replace the gauge.

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

I had a 180* t-stat like that in a 1992 K2500 'Burb 454 and could not get any heat. Replaced it with a regular 180* t-stat and had no issue. I did have a highflow water pump (Stewart) on the 'Burb

Re: 350 runs at 160
 

Sorry took so long to report back. The temp gun runs the same 160 or a hair more on the heads and block.

I did put a cast iron Milodon water pump and high flow thermostat. I dont recollect the temperature though.

I burned the heck out of my thumb checking the timing. It was at 18^

i need to now check the float level and and a couple of other settings.

Its close though because it runs good and doesn't clatter on 91 octane non ethanol gas.