engine overheat after manifold install.

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Jan 23, 2002 | 10:01 PM

55forder

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Joined: Apr 2001

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From: San Diego

engine overheat after manifold install.

Hello friends.
I just installed an Edelbrock performer intake manifold, and a Holley 600 carb on my 1977 302. I took out the old thermostat and just figured I'd run it straight through(friend said it would make me run cooler) I let her idle for about 20 minutes, and got up to 180 degrees, plus I smelled that smell of an engine overheating-you know the one. With the 2bbl, and the old intake, I never got that hot but now I'm heating rapidly. Any suggestions?

Thank you.

Jan 24, 2002 | 07:12 AM

slikness

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Joined: Jun 1999

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From: Durham

engine overheat after manifold install.

You've probably got some air in your system causing poor coolant circulation. Not running a thermostat will make the system more susceptable to air in the system. Try running your truck with the radiator cap off to allow the air to escape as it circulates and keep an eye on the fluid level. Add fluid as necessary, but be careful, the engine does not like getting an ice cold splash of coolant when it's hot!!! Add just a little and slowly. You can also squeeze the upper radiator hose to help work the air out of your system. I would recommend using a thermostat...that will help the engine get to operating temperature quicker and help maintain a constant temperature while running.

Jan 24, 2002 | 10:53 AM

airharley

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Joined: Nov 2001

Posts: 3,351

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From: Escondido, CA

engine overheat after manifold install.

Also to get trapped air out of your system with a thermostat, drill a 1/8" hole in it. Just make sure you don't drill the sealing surface.

Jan 24, 2002 | 02:59 PM

rc351w

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Joined: Jan 2001

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engine overheat after manifold install.

>I took out the old
>thermostat and just figured I'd run it straight
>through(friend said it would make me run cooler) I let her
>idle for about 20 minutes, and got up to 180 degrees, plus I
>smelled that smell of an engine overheating-you know the
>one. With the 2bbl, and the old intake, I never got that hot
>but now I'm heating rapidly. Any suggestions?
>
>Thank you.

55forder,

Your friend gave you some bad advice. I once asked a friend of mine about running without a thermostat (he races stock cars with his father). He told me NOT to and explained why. "Without the thermostat, or a restrictor plate, the water circulates too fast and doesn't remain in the rad long enough to cool to the proper temperature." This is even more a problem when sitting idling.

If your wanting to run cooler, get a 180 or even a 165 thermostat.

RCC

Jan 24, 2002 | 05:14 PM

galaxiefiveohoh

Senior User

Joined: Mar 2001

Posts: 126

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From: Payson USA

engine overheat after manifold install.

One more thing. It is very possible and very easy to have installed the head gasket incorrectly which will block your cooling passage. More guys have wet the bed trying to figure this one out.

Jan 24, 2002 | 07:14 PM

55forder

Thread Starter

Elder User

Joined: Apr 2001

Posts: 673

Likes: 1

From: San Diego

engine overheat after manifold install.

I got a 180 degree thermostat, am going to install it tomorrow. Thanks for the help fellas.

Oh! it might help to add some coolant as the previous owner obviously has it full with H20.Whats the best way to flush my radiator? (lots of rust).

Jan 24, 2002 | 08:08 PM

airharley

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Joined: Nov 2001

Posts: 3,351

Likes: 1

From: Escondido, CA

engine overheat after manifold install.

The best way I can think of is using a prestone flush kit with the flush/cleaner. You can run H2O in your engine as long as you add a rust inhibitor. Also look for a product called wetter water. It helps to disperse heat better then plain water or anti-freeze/water. But remember it is a additive.