optimum running temp?

[Stang_ROTY]

Chris is completely correct in regards to the fan shroud, and I'm speaking from experience. I spent a ton of money building up my engine (see sig.) below and becuase I went with a Black Majic electric fan for a 302 and used it on a 351 I ruined a set of bearings and wasted a lot of effort and potentially could of destroyed my engine if I raced it. I only had/have 200 miles on my engine. My temp's were exactly in your range and I went through an aweful lot to get things right (chaging thermo's did nothing in my case). A year later I'm back with a new set of bearings and I'm in the process of tuning/breaking in my engine with new bearings and cam. I cannot overestimate the importance of getting the fan and shroud. I immediately noticed the difference last year when I put the fan and shroud back on, but by then it was too late. The damage had been done. I'm not trying to tell you what to do with your vehicle, I'm just stating the facts from what I've learned. You are doing no justice to your engine by running it at temp's that exceed 225-230 degrees.

Good luck!

Originally posted by PKRWUD
Actually, the fan shroud is a very important part of the system. When combined with the fan, it creates a vacuum that sucks more air through more of the radiator. While you might be okay without one, you are better with one. And, as the radiator slowly clogs over time, the absence of a shroud will cause a problem. There is no guarantee that a shroud alone will solve your problem, but it will definately make a difference. They don't put them there just to protect your fingers!

Take care,
-Chris