LT1-LT4 Modifications 1993-97 Gen II Small Block V8

ideal operating temp

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Old Feb 23, 2009 | 01:43 PM
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Default ideal operating temp

Im wondering whats the best operating temps for an LT1 to make power not for efficiency. I know the higher the temp the more complete the burn but I've also been told LT1's like to run cooler so I figured I would consult with the real guru's. my LT1 usually sits around 170 and never sees 180 and I've been wondering if I should swap out the 160t-stat for a 170(spring & summer car only).
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Old Feb 23, 2009 | 01:51 PM
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Mine seems to run best around the 185 mark.
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Old Feb 23, 2009 | 01:54 PM
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Changing the thermostat will not dictate what temp your car will run at. By itself it will only delay how long it takes your car to warm up. However, when used with PCM programming to turn the fans on sooner, or with a manual fan switch, you can keep the car much cooler than stock.

There is no magic temperature number when it comes to horsepower. The consensus is the cooler the better. I saw best dyno figures with mine around 175 - 180. IMO, anything below 200 is ideal.
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Old Feb 23, 2009 | 02:07 PM
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Originally Posted by RamAir95TA
Changing the thermostat will not dictate what temp your car will run at. By itself it will only delay how long it takes your car to warm up. However, when used with PCM programming to turn the fans on sooner, or with a manual fan switch, you can keep the car much cooler than stock.

There is no magic temperature number when it comes to horsepower. The consensus is the cooler the better. I saw best dyno figures with mine around 175 - 180. IMO, anything below 200 is ideal.
yes im aware I'd need a re-tune, I'm going to need an update before my car goes on the road again anyways.
main reason why im asking tho is because im going to be getting an EWP when I swap cams and w/ the cooling mods I already have(becool/160tstat/160program) I think its going to be running below 170 most the time and im not sure how good that will be..
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Old Feb 23, 2009 | 02:22 PM
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There IS such a thing as running too cool. Engine heat helps with thermal efficiency, along with lowering the viscosity of the oil. Not to mention it won't be warm enough to vaporize any moisture in the crankcase to be pulled out by the PVC system and increase the risk of milking up your oil.

IMO, shoot for no less than 175.
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Old Feb 23, 2009 | 02:31 PM
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Fluidyne radiator will help since our factory radiators are barely adequate.
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Old Feb 23, 2009 | 02:48 PM
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Originally Posted by RamAir95TA
There IS such a thing as running too cool. Engine heat helps with thermal efficiency, along with lowering the viscosity of the oil. Not to mention it won't be warm enough to vaporize any moisture in the crankcase to be pulled out by the PVC system and increase the risk of milking up your oil.

IMO, shoot for no less than 175.
alright thanks! I was afraid of some thing like that, I think I'll ditch the 160 and get a 170(w/ reprograming of course) to be on the safe side.
Originally Posted by 96lt1m6
Fluidyne radiator will help since our factory radiators are barely adequate.
yeah I've got a becool which I think is going to be overkill once I get an EWP on top of the 160's
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