8BA Running Temperatures
 

May be a silly question but i’m very concerned with temperature of my 1950 8BA. I’ve heard so much about overheating in these engines. I’ve installed temp sensors on both upper head ports just to keep an eye on both sides. Does the group think this is overkill or will it do any good to monitor the engine temps this way? I have a aluminum radiator with a full size temp controlled electric fan... Also whats a good running temperature recommended for these engines?
Thanks for any feedback.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

what kind of temp sensors. i run a good mechanical temp gauge in my 36 pick up.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

I have sensors on both sides - truck and car. I found it very helpful, as I had one side thermostat stick closed.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

2 electric gauges on the 8ba in my '39 p/u. Both run the same temp but every now and again one thermostat opens later than the other.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

The cooler the ambient temperature, the cooler your engine will run.
I have found that 180 to 195 is ok.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

180/200 with a 4lb cap
Gramps

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

I run 180 - 190 with an open system in my 39.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

I have the stock gauge in one and a mechanical gauge in the other. 180* thermostats. ‘50 8BA,Keep it running 180*-190*. Your motor will be happy ..... Mark

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

The hotter the better for the engine, but there are limits of course. I would say 180 as a minimum and 190 to 195 is better.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

I run gauges on both sides and 180 thermostats. I like the engine to get as hot as possible / practical on each drive. I've had no cooling issues!

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

Good information everyone... Thanks!!

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

My 8RT warms up quickly and runs at 190 here in central FL

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

1951 F1. 8RT, same as 8BA just lower compression.
I run the stock gage of the left side and an electric universal gage off the right side.
don’t remember what thermostat I put in it 21 years ago but on 100 degree days it stays below 180.
Have been considering going to 180 thermostats. May help the gas mileage a little.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

I put 160* thermostats in my ‘50 because that’s what the book said. After reading many threads on here, I put 180* in. My fuel mileage went from 12-13 MPG to 16-17. The motor just seems to have more “seat of pants” power also.......Mark

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

Yep, 180s in Ohio,never overheats & runs GR8.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

I've got 180 thermostats in mine. It's occasionally gotten to 185, if it's a really hot day.
(110/115)
Usually sits around 160-165 max in the "winter" in SoCal...... 50 degrees F outside.
I could probably change them out to 195's during that time of the year. Maybe my
heater would actually work other than blowing lukewarm air.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

I would think with 180 thermostats, it should maintain minimum temp of 180. I would check to see if one or both stats are not restricting flow as they should.

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

My 52 8ba always ran about 180 except in winter 160 but always had heat !

Re: 8BA Running Temperatures
 

My 8CM has 180 degree stats. It struggles to get to 160 in cool weather. I tell myself it is because the water pumps' bypass is sending cool water straight to the heads.