In the L98 Y bodies, we have a very difficult time keeping our engine temps under control. We usually do things like changing the thermostat and reprogramming the eprom for lower temp open loop and fan ons, but there isn't a *real* cure for temps up around 220-230 for our Vettes. Do the F bodies have the same problems with cooling? My large displacement motor here in Fresno's 100+ degree days bothers me. There's no way I can even think about running the AC under these conditions.

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408cid 1985 Corvette
http://www.mojosgarage.com

 

I've got a 305 TBI iroc and I had some cooling problems.. but the thermo was stuck and it didn't have an air dam and the water pump leaks.. Got the first two replaced and it stays around 180 or so, in 90*+ weather.

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89 iroc-z 305 tbi
k&n filtercharger, open element air filter. nuffin' else

 

Mojo,

Yes, and it's even worse for the TAs since there are no grille openings on the front of the car.

I installed a lower temperature t-stat and chose 180°F because the last coolant temperature dependent parameter in the ECM PROM programming is at 176°F. I also installed a parallel temperature switch to operate the fan independedntly of the ECM:



Those two items helped immensely. The coolant seldom reached 200°F any more with full AC in stop/go traffic.

Just to make doubly certain (and to get a little more downforce) I installed a larger front air deflector:



I still have 1½" ground clearance and lots of ram air for cooling. All that air that stays out from under the vehicle is a real plus, too.

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Later,
Vader
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"Let the bodies hit the floor!"
Adobe Acrobat Reader

 

http://www.gmtips.com/3rd-degree/dox...tat-theory.htm

 

Yep.. It looks like you F body guys are in the same boat as we Y body guys.. I've done all of the standard stuff: T-stat, fans, removing the upper wheel wells (In the Vette, the hot air has nowhere to exit the engine compartment, so the underhood temps are out of control!). I just wish I had more room under the hood of my Vette for a bigger radiator.

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408cid 1985 Corvette
http://www.mojosgarage.com

 

What's your radiator like? Maybe you can have a bigger radiator, you can make it bigger in more ways than just long and tall. Wouldn't be surprised to see in '85 GM using like a 3 core copper/brass radiator. You might want to give Griffin Radiator or BeCool a call. They might could set you up with a much better radiator than stock.

You may want to look in to the high performance fans from Perma Cool. The CFM on those fans is about double a stocker. Between the two you might cure your cooling problem.

Also think about a well planted hood scoop. Gives you a new place to let hot air out.