CRG Discussion Forum

Camaro Research Group Discussion => Maintenance => Topic started by: babaron on January 04, 2011, 11:15:05 PM

Title: temp guage
Post by: babaron on January 04, 2011, 11:15:05 PM

The temp gauge on my 69 L78 never moves above the 2nd line above "cold", even after driving for half an hour. 
Is that normal, or is it a bad gauge?

Thanks,

Ron

Title: Re: temp guage
Post by: BlackoutSteve on January 05, 2011, 01:29:13 AM

Tape some plastic as an "apron" over your radiator and go for a short drive. Watch the gauge as it should want to over-heat.

Maybe your cooling system has ample capacity.

You could try a warmer (perhaps 195°F) thermostat if you think it's running too cold. Maybe it has a 160°F or 180°F in there now.
195°F is the original factory temp according to the Service Manual.

Title: Re: temp guage
Post by: tom on January 05, 2011, 04:22:38 AM

Sounds like a thermostat issue. It is not supposed to open until correct operating temp has been reached. This was a common solution for customers with heater problems. Pull the radiator cap, look inside with cold running motor. Solution should not be flowing much until it heats up.

Title: Re: temp guage
Post by: JohnZ on January 05, 2011, 05:42:34 PM

These gauges aren't laboratory-standard instruments - they give general indications. Shoot the upper radiator hose just above the thermostat housing after it warms up (thermostat open) with an I.R. gun to see the actual operating temperature.