Hey guys,
So my brother and I have similarly built 350 TPIs, the differences are pretty insignificant. We both were out at a cruise this weekend and there was a bit of traffic and both cars were running around 260 (verified with coolant gauges tapping into the upper radiator hose). This is a bit hotter than either of us would want our cars running. Radiator upgrades are an option, but would there be another option that we are possibly over looking?
Thanks.

 

Well, first off, check the temp with an infrared thermometer. It's possible your gauges are off. Mine reads about 25* hot compared to when the switches turn the fans on.

did it get hot in traffic only or also on the highway?

 

Run down the cooling system basics;

Check condition of the radiator:
- fins clear of debris, not bent/mangled
- no visible leaks from seals or hoses
- radiator cap gasket in good shape
- not blocked (leaves/debris)
- with engine at temp check for cold spots on the radiator (usually at the bottom, evidence of blocked passages)
Check condition of the air dam:
- not missing/broken
Check condition of the fan(s):
- if electric, check for proper operation
- if mechanical, fan clutch not worn out
Check Hoses:
- Not kinked/collapsed/leaking/steam leak. Look for evidence of pinhole steam leaks in the form of yellowish green deposits or "snot" at gasket areas and around hose ends.
Check water pump:
- no sign of leakage from weep hole
- no odd noises
Check coolant:
- proper color/mixture
- proper fluid level (has the system been "burped" to remove all air?)
- does system pressurize (engine at temp, thermostat open, radiator cap on and upper and lower hoses not soft)?
Check heater:
- does hot air blow from the vents with engine at temp (heater core not clogged?)

Other things that can effect engine temp are detonation, trans issues (auto trans generate a LOT of heat), mineral deposits in the engine/heater core/radiator that block coolant flow (from running tap water), and improper timing.

 

I'd think the gauges would be off it wasn't appearing on 4 different gauges (aftermarket and factory)

Only in traffic for extended periods of time.