What should be the expected operating range of these engines?
I would think the lower would be the thermostat temp (190F stock - test within 187-193F to start to open).
Although the Service and Diagnostic Manuals don't provide specs for top operating temperature, they mention a few temps of various component triggers:
The idiot lamp doesn't illuminate until 246-250F.
The TVS doesn't advance timing until 230F.
The thermostat should be fully open by no more than 222F.
So my question to those with much more engine cooling system expertise then me: Is 210-220 bad? Us guys with just idiot lights don't know the difference anyway.
And Rockman, if you want to lower the temp a little in a pinch, you could try to dissipate some by turning your heater on full. It may be miserable but can help reduce engine heat.
Drove my 1st FB for a year with the original radiator, 4 blade fan, no air baffles. And replacement 195 stat.
Had 90K miles when i installed gauges and found it was run'n 210-215. Up to 220 sometimes.
