Running temp for my 350

[GUITAR1989]

Hows everybody doing Im just wondering what the optimal running temp for my truck is. ive never had it apart so as far as i know its stock 350 sbc with a Qjet. Im dont know alot about these engines and im just wondering what is a good temp range for them to be running at..also at what temp does it start getting to the point where damage can occur. What exactly happens when an engine overheats?

[jaredts]

I don't know the textbook answers, but I don't like anything much over 200 (210 is about max. for me to be comfortable).  It takes more than that to damage the engine, though.  At higher temperatures the oil viscosity breaks down causing rings to break down, bearings to gall, and cams and lifters to wear prematurely.  Heads get too hot and warp or head gaskets fail.  Maybe some others know something a little more technically correct.

[Grim 82]

Mine runs at 210 all the time with a 195 thermostat. I have read that with the quality of today's gas you need to run at 200 degress just to burn it efficiently.

Here's some general info: http://www.aa1car.com/library/overheat.htm

[VileZambonie]

Overheating is BAD. It shouldn't get above 220°F

Many modern engines operate around 220-240°F

[Irish_Alley]

the hotter a engine runs the better efficiently it has like vile said newer engine run hotter for a reason i think a modern engine now is only like 20% efficient if that ours well im thinking 10% lol

[GUITAR1989]

hmm if thats true about running at 200 to take full advantage of todays fuels then my trucks a little on the cold side. It runs a hair over 180. Ill have to see how it handles the summer temps. Im thinking itll be right around where im comfortable with it. Ill just have to keep an eye on it and see how it acts through the seasons thanks for the help

[78 Chevyrado]

Don't rely on the stock gauges to tell you an actual temp.  They're scarily innacurate.  I've noticed on my 3 trucks the gauge only goes up to the first mark above C  but the temp varies as much as 20 degrees both ways and the gauge doesn't move much if any in that range.

[GUITAR1989]

I put in some autometer traditional chromes. I would like to use one of those laser heat guns though to check its accuracy.