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I have a 302 in my 1969 Ranger that is bored .40 over. When I got it back from the mechanic that rebuilt it he said not to let it run above 180 degrees water temp.
My modern day vehicles run around 210 degrees water temp.
This Ranger likes to be around 185 to 195 degrees water temp in normal driving conditions with no hot rodding.
Will I be in trouble if I let it run above the 180 degrees as suggested?
If so, what can I do to bring the water temp down?
If not, what is the normal operating water temp range?
The truck is stock except for the over bore and a 4 barrell edelbrock and electronic ignition.
195 will not hurt your stock 302. Your mechanic probably told you this so you'd keep an eye on the temps, which can run higher than normal during the breakin period. If it really bothers you that much you can add "red line watter wetter" to the cooling system for better thermal efficiency.
I run a 195 t-stat in all my street driven applications.
Hope this helps.
Greg