440 big block getting hot

[Jimmy01]

...how hot can a 440 big block get? (Before you cook it!) I have a 1974 Dodge Challenger that sits beautifully (in heavy traffic) at 180, it stays there for about 5 or 10 mins, then goes up to about 205 quite quickly . Cheers!

 

[moparlee]

Jimmy, you have two posts going about this. I and others have replied in your other one. You might want to delete this one.

 

[CCKen]

...how hot can a 440 big block get? (Before you cook it!) I have a 1974 Dodge Challenger that sits beautifully (in heavy traffic) at 180, it stays there for about 5 or 10 mins, then goes up to about 205 quite quickly . Cheers!

What thermostat are you running?

 

[Ccas]

Can someone provide a link to the other topic?

 

[Mickie Lulu]

205 is not hot, that's about normal
260 is hot
todays fuel is designed to burn at a min of 195 degrees engine operating temperature
All engines require 15 degrees of timing BTDC, about 34-36 total and 195 degree thermostat
It's 2020 not 1970

 

[Chryco Psycho]

212 is the boiling point , add antifreeze & it rises to about 220 , add 16 PSI to the system & 265* is the boiling point with 50% coolant
I agree 206 is well within the operating range , I would be getting nervous above 240*
It is nicer to keep it on the cooler side

 

[Ccas]

yep, 205 is ok. It's the 'getting to 205 quickly' that has me a little concerned. If it stays at 205 in heavy traffic on a hot day, then you have no worries. If not, then you need some help.