Thank you for the guidance about the extra rubber ring with the thermostat. I sealed the car up without the extra ring and just used a gasket/plus chemical sealer. No leaks


New issue though. After 20 minutes driving, the gauge had risen to between the `m' and`a' in `normal.' Picture attached.


I tested the old thermostat and from what I can tell it doesn't work. That gives me hope. But before it broke it'd keep that gauge right in the middle of the dial; it was great.


The old thermostat is stamped Waxstat, Made in England, 74. The new one I put in is stamped 85C. Technical data in the manual has standard type fully open at 74 and extreme conditions type 82C: so I think I'm right to go up to 85C living here in Baltimore (bitter winters of late and hot summers).


My question: Could the new gauge reading be a normal reading for the new kind of thermostat and I have to get used to the gauge not sitting dead center?


Hoping this is not just wishful thinking on my part but might be an explanation for the elevated reading.


Thanks, as always, for any help you can give.

 

I would say your increased temperature is down to the higher temperature thermostat you have just fitted. Provided the reading stays steady, I don't think you have anything to worry about, in fact the engine should run more efficiently.

 

Thank you, Fraser. Very logically put! Music to my ears, too. I'll take the car out today and just make sure it stays fixed at that elevated spot.


Odd you should say that about the engine. As I was watching that dial move up I was also struck by the fact she'd never sounded better and I was puzzled by that. Still am, to be honest. Your reasoning about that increased efficiency?


Thanks so much!

 

Yup!


85 C is entirely within range.


My lump has an engine designed for a higher operating temperature. 90 C.
OK for the LT1, but probably at the outter tolerance of your DOHC.


To a degree, higher temps do make an engine more efficient. Except for intake air!!! cooool is good there.


Carl