I am new to the forum, and need some help with my 1971 Cutlass (350 Rocket). At idle and standstill the temp is reaching around 210 degrees. I replaced the thermostat with 160 degree still at 210 at idle. When cruizing 180-190. Its not overheating, but I dont think it should be at 210 at idle.

The only other thing I can think might be the problem is it does not have the stock clutch fan, it has an aftermarket fan with no clutch. I have enclosed a picture of a fan that looks like the one thas on there now. I also enclosed a picture of my Cutlass.

Any help or advice you guys can give would be great.

Thanks
Mark

 

There are great many threads pertaining to this. Your 210 at idle and not moving is pretty normal as is your 180 - 190 cruising temp, for your setup. The 160 thermostat only postpones the the full operating temp of the motor. It sets the minimum, your engine and cooling system set maximum.

You can get a shroud, and clutch fan setup, clean your radiator, etc... all the normal stuff and maybe get it under 200. 210 at extended idle will not overheat your engine!

 

Thanks Old Cutlass, was not sure if I have had many pontiacs and they run hot and thats normal, was not sure of that aftermarket fan with no clutch was causing this. I probably will change the fan anyway back to original.

 

I think it's just the fan. It doesn't have enough surface area for pulling air. It needs more blades. A stock clutch fan would be better.

 

The old rule of thumb is hot at idle= fan/shroud issues, hot at speeds= radiator issues. I do think 210 at idle is too high. To oldcutlass's point, my other Olds ran better with a 180 than a 160 stat.

One word about states, some aftermarket ones are quite restrictive. Go with the Robert/Shaw or Moroso part.

 

Thanks for your advice Chief. Whoa!!!

 

Thanks Cpt Jim.