Timing effect cooling?

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Jun 28, 2004 | 09:37 PM

Wrecker

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Joined: Dec 2001

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From: Brockport USA

Timing effect cooling?

At one time I saw a thread about how timing can effect the cooling, but I can't seem to find the thread. I have a 79 F250 with a 400CI. that runs warm. Ive flushed everything, but it still runs warm after several miles. I would like to try changing the timing to see if it makes a difference. The engine was rebuilt about 1500 miles ago. I bought it, and installed it in my truck, but never messed with the timing. The truck runs great, but I did notice it diesels one in a while when I shut it off. What should the timing be set at? Should I try advancing, or retarding the timing? Any one else had this problem with cooling caused by timing?

Thanks

Jul 1, 2004 | 10:01 PM

Ultramagdan

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Joined: Feb 2000

Posts: 11,496

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From: Kansas

Yes, timing can affect cooling but I woud be surprised if yours was off since it was rebuilt. I would suspect a carb adjustment is needed. Premium fuel may also help. Turning the engine off while it is in drive will stop run on.

Usually it seems they will ping after a rebuild, which clears up with premium fuel and quality plugs.

Jul 3, 2004 | 02:37 PM

rebocardo

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Joined: Jun 2002

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From: Atlanta GA

Advanced timing can make an engine run warmer and so can a rebuild/rebore because it removes metal from the cyl. walls. The first thing to do is get an accurate water temperature guage and sender. Then replace the thermostat with something that is not an Autozone special. After that start looking at a plugged radiator. If your radiator is truly plugged nothing short of a power flush hooked to an air compressor will unplug it, sometimes even that will fail.

Jul 12, 2004 | 12:36 AM

fordflaresides

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Joined: Apr 2004

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From: Tucson, AZ

I had a '79 Bronco with a 400M always ran a little warm, new water pump, radiator, thermostat, ran premium, timing set exactly to spec. Installed an electric fan kit, never went above the middle of the gauge. Live in Tucson, Arizona.