How hot should my engine run?

I replaced the water pump, thermostat, and drive belt in my '94 Chevy 1500 a couple of weeks ago. I'm not a mechanic by any stretch of the imagination: oil changes, disc brakes, fuel filters, etc. However, I occasionally take on a project when I can.

My truck is 2wd and is the W/T model so it's pretty much bare bones...no A/C, 4.3 L.

Everything is working fine now. However, the truck only heats up to about

140 degrees on the temp gauge. At first I thought, "right on!" But I half wonder if it shouldn't be running a little hotter. Is there a peak temperature?

Thanks.

Reply to
testy
Loading thread data ...

I *always* check any new thermostat before I install it. A thermometer and a pot of boiling water works for all settings below 212.

As far as the reading on your gauge goes, if you're relying on an electric one, don't count on it being accurate.

Reply to
nonsense

I had the same problem, it was the sensor in the block.

Reply to
Jon

'94 Chevy 1500 .

?I'm not a mechanic

I occasionally take on a project when I can.

2wd W/T model bare bones... no A/C 4.3 L.

Everything is working fine now. ?

However, the truck only heats up to about 140 degrees on the temp gauge.

?Is there a peak temperature?

. Thanks.

========= =========

I would think you would be a bit more concerned with reaching normal operating temperature......

but.... that's jest me..... and sumtimes....i gots me a baaaad habit of read'n what's typed...and not what's not typed.. so please fergive my impert'nenc.

anywhooo......

To answer your question..... the range of 180 to 200 should be what you'de look for if you're after a peak reading, that is.... if the system is sealed well.....if not...then feel free to use the boiling point of water as "mean" peak figure. (oh yeah..and the 180-200..is not vehicle specific) (jest a personal acceptable level based on experience) (though..at times..i will acept 220 as a peak) (it's a climate thing)

~:~ MarshMonster ~pours a bit of crownroyal in his coffee..... mmmm.....can i mix it up or what~ ~:~

Reply to
Marsh Monster

Should be pretty close to the temp rating of the thermostat you installed. What temp was the thermostat?

Mine runs about 140, according to an IR thermometer I pointed at it. I read the temp of the thermostat housing after I'd got home from some driving, and only a couple seconds after turning off the engine. Throws enough heat in the winter, so I stopped worrying about it.

Reply to
Stormin Mormon

What temperature did it run at before the thermostat was replaced. If it ran hotter it probably would be a thermostat sticking open. While not as common as sticking shut it does happen. As to running temp would vary a little bit according to what range thermostat is installed - most use 190-195 thermostat. Engine temp should go to this or maybe a little higher and drop slightly as it opens.

Reply to
Norman R. Cross

MotorsForum website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.