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temp

Old Jul 1, 2024 | 07:39 PM
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temp

My 1978 F-100, 302, automatic, has a 180 degree thermostat. After the engine warms up and is running the temp gauge always reads a steady 210 degrees.

Is this wrong, or what it should be?

Thanks, CB3
 
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Old Jul 1, 2024 | 09:41 PM
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Originally Posted by CB3
My 1978 F-100, 302, automatic, has a 180 degree thermostat. After the engine warms up and is running the temp gauge always reads a steady 210 degrees.

Is this wrong, or what it should be?

Thanks, CB3
The lower number on a T-stat does not mean it will run cooler. That is the opposite of what happens. With a 180 you will have an open circuit that never has time to cool. Try running a 190-195 and see if it stabilizes.
 
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Old Jul 2, 2024 | 06:45 AM
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I think you need to check the actual temperature with a Infared temp gun to be sure of where you actually are. 210 is too high for a normal range. Also check your fan blade and shroud and how clean your radiator is.
 
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Old Jul 2, 2024 | 07:16 PM
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Fan shroud is in place - radiator is clean - fan clutch and fan blades appear ok.
I will find an infrared heat gun tomorrow and check the coolant temp.

Thanks.
 
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