Hello-
I recently bought a 61' econoline pickup that seems to be running hot. The temp guage went right up to H so I put in a new 3 core radiator and a new 180 degree thermostat. Now it runs at about 3/4 of the way to H- still seems hot to me. The engine runs well, no oil in coolant, it starts up fine after sitting for awhile while hot- no vapor lock etc. I am not sure if the guage is accurate or temp sensor is accurate. The dog house cover seems hot but I dont know what is normal.

Is this normal operating temp for these trucks?

appreciate any help

Eric

 

No that seems a little high to me I have 2 of these both supervans with 240 I-6s in them running original radiators and they run just alittle above center on the temp gauge and i drive my 66 daily. you might wanna have the coolant system flushed and also add a couple of 12v fans to push cool air up into the engine box from the bottom of the rad up and make sure you have the belly pan installed - just my 2 cents have a great day robert

 

Thanks for the advice Robert
ERic in Sacto CA

 

I had to change my rad in my truck also when I got it. It was abad rad.
A belly pan will also help with directing more air from the grill to the rad and engine area. The doghouse always on my truck and when I was a kid, my dad had these as delivery vans. The doghouses were always warm. But not the point you could not sit on them or touch them.
An engine coolant flush would help. If you suspect the sending unit. Replace it. They are not that expensive.
I never had to put on extra fans on mine. But my truck has not been on the road for the last 10 years. Trying to find time to do a full restoration.

 

Hello- thanks for the information-
hope you get yours back on the road soon!

Eric in Sacto CA