Carb Tuning & Overheating

I shouldn't say my Jeep overheats the way it used to but it doesn't stay at 180 degrees either, even in winter. I have had the radiator rebuilt (it is larger than stock), I replaced the kinked upper hose, replaced the thermostat (180 d), built a fan shroud, and added an auxilliary electric fan with a toggle switch and it still runs warm. I kept the stock fan too. Warm means it will sit about 190-200 degrees when running around town in the summer heat.

All my improvements have helped as before I would see 220d. I am wondering if my carb settings have something to do with the engine running hot. I have also checked the timing which I have set at the factory level.

I run headers and I believe the carb is the stock Rochester.

My question is; should I be running a little rich or lean? Does that have anything to do with engine temps?

I am running out of ideas to get the engine running at 180 degrees. The gauge is a manual type with the sending unit right behind the thermostat. I also drilled a small hole on the top of the thermostat as mentioned here too.

Thanks for the help.

 

"IF" you are running lean, yes it will produce more heat.

 

I doubt a 180* constant temp is doable with any internal combustion engine
too many variables
180-220 or anywhere in between would be normal to me
espcially on a hot day
I'd call it good to go if it were me
ymmv

 

Ok, that is what I wanted to hear. I may still do some adjusting on the carb.

Thanks for the advice.

 

I know the correct thermostat for my 75 258 is 195*, so once again, I'm gonna concur with Jim...you're fine. Now my Harley is a whole different deal..try running around with an engine with a 230* oil temp between your legs on a 110* day. Now THATS hot. Normal for a twin cam, though.

 

just to follow up
Kent is correct also
any timing or carb problems can/may cause overheating as well
along with restricted exhaust, lugging the engine, etc etc
so you need to check any/all possibilites here

 

mine runs at 220* (unless it's below 50* outside).