hello, my 94 with a LT1 tends to run close to the red when driving up steedy inclines. I'm not really pushing it and the grade is pretty steep and runs about 3/4 of a mile. Radiator is brand new but the vehicle has 130k on it. It runs just below half way on the temp gage while driving around town and everywhere else. Is there anything I can do to run alittle cooler?? thanks in advance

 

Check your fans for proper operation. Depending on when your 94 was built. The early version uses the primary fan first and then turns on the secondary fan if the primary can't do the job. The late version both fans come on at low speed and switch to high speed if things get too hot. The secondary and high speed come on near the boiling point. You can try turning on the AC to recirc/max when ging up the hill as this forces both fans on or high speed and see if the temp stays low. Also make sure the system is properly bled to avoid air bubbles. Check for collapsing radiator hoses, make sure all radiator shrouding and air dam under the radiator is in place. Thermostat should be OK as the normally get stuck in the open position.

 

what is your opinion on installing a 160 deg. thermostat?
thanks, Mike

 

It will help but you will have to make the fans come on sooner. The stock thermostat is 185 degree, but the fans are set to come on at 225 degree (fan 1 or both fans at low speed, depending on car viintage) If the temp goes over 232 degree fan 2 is also turned on, or both fans are switched to high speed. So the 160 thermostst will keep the car cooler as long as the car is traveling at a good clip but it will still rise to 232 degeee in traffic or under load. You can change the fan turn on point by reprogramming the computer. There us no temp switch in this car directly controlling the fans.

 

Yes my 94's fans do come on @ 232. I would really like for both of them to come on @ about 210 deg. Though my car has never overheated while climbing up that long grade, I'm still uncomfortable about how late GM has program those fans to come on. You mention reprograming the computer might help, what must I do or where can I send it to do this?
Thanks for your replies,

Mike

 

If you have a tuner shop in your area, they may have a program such as "LT1 Edit" to reprogram your computer, otherwise youc an get a Hyprtech power programmer, which plugs in the diagnostic port and allows you to change various parameters including the fan settings, you will also get more engine power. Just don't set your fans to come on before the thermostat opens. Otherwise, you can just turn on the AC when going up a long incline. You have more than enough power to go uphill and run the AC at the same time. Drove to the top of Pikes Peak with the AC on. Engine ran cool & no problems at all.