How hot is too hot?

[Loanranger]

How hot is too hot for an '83 2.3 to run? I'm having trouble keeping mine below the 200 mark. I know with an aluminum head on a cast block, you shouldn't get past say 215 or so, but what about the 2.3 with a cast head? Is there a problem with getting it to the 210 or so range repeatedly, as long as it doesn't go over that?

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

210 isnt in the danger range yet IMO.

however, since the truck probably has a 190 degree t-stat, i would check into why its running so much hotter than the t-stat is rated.

 

[Loanranger]

Thanks for the reply, this is in my suzuki, so there is limited space for a radiator and fan. The radiator is out of a 2.0 liter Datsun truck, and has nearly the same surface area as the original ranger one, but is twice as thick. It's also a downflow, so the tanks being on top and bottom allowed me to fit in in the front sheetmetal. I'm thinking that the problem is with the fan, for one, theres no room for a puller, so it's an electric pusher, and it seems to do well on the trail at low speeds, staying under 190, but when I get out on a gravel road or get the speeds up in 3rd or 4th gear, is when it starts getting up around 200. The fan is on all the time, so I'm thinking that it is scattering the airflow when at higher speeds. Seem like a possiblity?

 

[Wicked_Sludge]

thats really weird that the problem only occurs at speed. i guess its possible that the fan is "blocking" the radiator from getting sufficient flow at speed. if its not difficult to remove, id give it a shot and see what happens.

 

[Loanranger]

Well, I'm gonna live with it for now, cause like I said, it hasn't been above 200 yet, but maybe a degree or two, and I'm hoping to find a similar sized aluminum radiator at the swapmeet this weekend. If not, I might end up just getting a way larger one and running it in the back with a couple e-fans on it. That oughta keep it cool. Thanks for your help.