How Hot is Hot? (1GM10 question)

[KenMcCulloch]

Mine never seems to get very hot, like too hot to keep a finger on the cylinder head. Is that consistent with others or should I test the thermostat?

 

[pvb]

It won't feel very hot, the thermostat should start to open at 42C and be fully open at 52C. If you think it's not reaching this, it would be worth checking the thermostat.

 

[cindersailor]

I would concur with pvb that the 1GM should never get too hot to hold a finger on the head, mine certainly never did, although my recollection is that the thermostat is set for operation at about 65 degrees.

 

[Impaler]

I was told they don't get hot enough for a calorifier so I guess 50 to 60 sounds right.

 

[oldharry]

If a raw water cooled engine gets too hot, then you will get salt deposition in the waterways, which clogs them up, is very difficult to remove, and causes it to...er... get hot! Should not go over 55 - 60C