Ideal method of engine cooling for most consistent temps
#31
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I did not put any holes in them. They come with 1 hole in them for air pockets. I will probably not drill any holes in them right away. I'll see where my pressure is an go from there. I also just put those in my Merc 420's w/ 500 EFI cam builds. Those engines ran hotter water and oil than I like with 420 stock hardware. Nothing like spending $160 on thermostats. Why do I do this again... lol
#32
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I run in water temps that range from 34 to 76 degrees. I have a 524CI BBC that's a GM Mark IV block with AFR heads and a Brodix HV2000 intake, and Lightning headers. I am running the Hardin stainless pump that I have ported for better flow with a crossover and racing 160 thermostat. It came with 3 3/16" holes and I still have the divider under the thermostat. I added a -10 line from back to front to even out the cooling. According to my lab grade IR temp gun the front and rear of my cylinder heads are with 2 degrees of each other. I have slightly modified the headers to allow for more flow as well. When running wide open across the lake I run about 165 on the gauge. idling for any length and I'm 140-150 if the water is warm. When Lake Huron is cold, I'm lucky to hit 130 pushing it. My oil cooler is a bit too small, but with Amsoil as long as I'm under 300 degrees I'm fine. I couldn't ask for a more consistent and even cooling system.
#33
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Yes they do, I took the mufflers off last year as I finally got it to idle well at lower RPM for cruising down the rivers. You can really hear when the engine gets on the cam at 3000rpm, it let's out a roar that gives me chills. It's better than drugs.
#34
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See 2nd pic post #8