Temp Gauges

[fireplug]

I've only had three GM's but none of them had a temp gauge with actually temps written on it. Only a 'red zone'.

Are you guys posting actual temps using aftermarket gauges or did GM have some with actual temps calibrated on the gauge?

What temp should a properly tuned truck be at? Where would this mark be on a non-calibrated gauge the halfway point?

 

[jonrpick]

I've only had three GM's but none of them had a temp gauge with actually temps written on it. Only a 'red zone'.

Are you guys posting actual temps using aftermarket gauges or did GM have some with actual temps calibrated on the gauge?

What temp should a properly tuned truck be at? Where would this mark be on a non-calibrated gauge the halfway point?

Some have actual numbers on them, others don't. I swapped mine to one that did, because it gave me the warm/fuzzies. But honestly, I don't know how accurate it is, and it's not like it tells you in 10-degree increments or anything.

 

[dyeager535]

Some of the gauges had temps on them.

Your truck should run at whatever temp the thermostat is. If it isn't, then the cooling system is inadequate. (I fully realize that someone in Arizona in the summer, with the AC on, pulling a 10,000lb trailer, with a perfect condition stock cooling system, may see higher than t-stat temps BTW.)

Typical is between the far left and vertical mark, more towards the vertical. It's not a bad idea to check the gauge accuracy with something like a temp gun, but the gauge can at least serve as a warning indicator if it is consistent in movement from startup to warmed up engine.

I've had nothing but good luck with factory gauges, but I can also check them against the ECM temp sensor to verify they work.

 

[mini_mull]

Here's one with numbers:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/73-87-Chevy-GMC-Truck-Factory-Gauge-Cluster-w-Clock_W0QQitemZ250161149241QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item250161149241#ebayphotohosting

Mine used to stay just a little past the 2nd hash mark. Now it sits a little farther until it starts overheating and gets half in between 210 and the next hash mark and I turn it off. FI trucks are suppose to run at 195*, since that's the stock t-stat, but I'm not sure what a '76 should run at. BTW, thanks for not hijacking.

 

[fireplug]

Cool, thanks for the replies.

I totally blanked out on the T stat

" Typical is between the far left and vertical mark, more towards the vertical"

That is where mine is sitting until my pin holes allow too much coolant to seep out. Thanks for the confirmation.

Hopefully my cooling system will be new and improved within the week. It's been a bit of a pita but I finally decided on a Flexilite, Flexifit rad(waiting on delivery) with the Windstars.

 

[mini_mull]

Let us know how the install goes. Cooling research seems to be my new hobby, unfortunately.

 

[jonathon]

I'm just running an aftermarket cheapy Equus gauge... works and is accurate. Cost me all of $25 for the gauge and mount. Easy to install too...

 

[fireplug]

Let us know how the install goes. Cooling research seems to be my new hobby, unfortunately.

Will do.

I feel a little embarassed installing such an expensive rad, kinda goes against my, 'good enough' philosophy with this vehicle.

That said it is a seriously sweet looking piece and the fin design should make mounting a breeze.

 

[nad]

What happens when you take the thermostat out completely?

 

[mini_mull]

You're engine runs crappy since it takes forever to heat up and stay hot, or according to some it will overheat sonce there's no restriction.