Looks like my 350 builds up pressure (I think to Much.) At running temperture, 198 deg, the thermostat opens, The rdiator cap is 15 lbs. catch can retreves the overflow. Have an electric fan runs at 210 deg. My concern is the radiator hose get solid, meaning you can feel the presusser. is this normal?
Pressure I believe the pressure comes from the water pump moving all that water and is normal, just like turning on your water hose in your yard. Your engine temp is based mostly on how good your cooling system is. Your thermostat sets the minimum running temperature. Sounds like your engine is within acceptable temperatures. Drive it and enjoy it. Personally, I like my engine to run on the cool side of the normal operating range, but thats just me. Keep on truckin Gerald in Florida
Coolant Overflow Is it the original system ? . I hope you're leaving at least 1/2" between the bottom of thefiller neck and the coolant as it needs room for expansion else it'll puke out . Adding a catch tank and sealed cap will solve this as the sealed cap only allows coolant from the puke tank to be sucked back in . 198° F is not hot atall . The hose should be hard to the touch too when it's warm .
Yep, Nat, you’re right on this one, lower the fluid level, looks like I needed that room for expansion. I did change over to an aluminum radiator. The originial is rated at around 9lbs. the alunimus will now support the 15lbs of the 350.Small Block.
Radiator Requirements O.K. , well and good ~ just remember to keep a sharp eye on the coolant as it needs regular checking else it'll get electrolosis and corrode from the inside out ~ that tiny pin hole leak , means your three year old $500.00 raditor is now JUNK . FWIW , Many Hot Rods and Working Rigs are happliy running 500 cubic inch Big Block V-8's on the original radiator with three rows ~ . yes , even in Death Valley and So. Cal. where it's routinely 115° F . Pressure has NOTHING to do with overheating . Each pound of pressure raises the boiling point of plain water by three degrees , so @ 195° , you didn't have any overheating problems before and the 9 # cap was fine . Adding in the coolant mix raises the boiling point even higher . As long as you take care of it , it'll be fine and you'll be happy . Me , I like to run 'em as close to boiling temperature as possible as this increases power , fuel economy and engine life , all at the same time and co$t$ nothing to do .
