The patient: '84 RC, fresh rebuilt 360 (block boiled for 48 hrs), radiator professionally cleaned while out of truck. Water pump and T-stat are new.
I drove the truck to work this morning with temps around -15* F. I had good heat from the dash the whole trip (25 miles).
When I got to work I popped the hood to check for any noticeable leaks since this is it's 'maiden' voyage out of town. Everything looked in good shape, but I noticed there was no pressure in the upper radiator hose.
I grabbed my infrared thermometer and found the bottom end at 170*, the intake manifold at 150*, and the T-stat housing at 170*. I'm comfortable knowing the engine wasn't overheating on the trip, but the lack of pressure concerns me. I don't remember the temp rating of my T-stat, but if it's 180 or above, then it probably never opened. If it's 160-ish then it should have opened and the system should be pressurized.
I suppose there must be a leak somewhere in order for it to not build pressure. I will check the level before leaving work tonight.
Any ideas?
I drove the truck to work this morning with temps around -15* F. I had good heat from the dash the whole trip (25 miles).
When I got to work I popped the hood to check for any noticeable leaks since this is it's 'maiden' voyage out of town. Everything looked in good shape, but I noticed there was no pressure in the upper radiator hose.
I grabbed my infrared thermometer and found the bottom end at 170*, the intake manifold at 150*, and the T-stat housing at 170*. I'm comfortable knowing the engine wasn't overheating on the trip, but the lack of pressure concerns me. I don't remember the temp rating of my T-stat, but if it's 180 or above, then it probably never opened. If it's 160-ish then it should have opened and the system should be pressurized.
I suppose there must be a leak somewhere in order for it to not build pressure. I will check the level before leaving work tonight.
Any ideas?