A couple of basic questions about a Chevy 305.

Running a 4 core radiator with a 195* thermostat (oem stat for a 1980 Malibu, which the engine is out of), I run a steady 205*. Is this too hot or the optimum range for this small V8?

Also I am worried about the oil pressure at idle once the engine is warmed up. I top out at almost 60psi at about 2500 rpm when cold, but when warmed up at idle I will drop to 20psi at times. Too low? Am using Mobile 1 10w30.

Thanks for any feedback.

I'd say it's a little on the hot side for wheelin'. Try a 160 degree thermostat.

I've read somewhere that you need 10 psi of oil pressure for ever 1000 rpm so based on that 20psi at idle is plenty.

205 is too hot for a 305. Couple of things that might cause this are...a couple cores plugged in you radiator, bad radiator cap, timing, running lean.

My 305 in my s-10 runs at around 180 deg to 195 deg all day long (depending on the outside temperature). I usually get worried when it goes over 210 deg. Running a 180 deg thermostat and a Ford Thorus Rad. The oil pressure sounds right (very close to mine).

Thanks for the feedback. I am thinking it is the thermostat. I have a 195* stat in there and notice that it does not always open up until after 200*. Will try going with a cooler thermostat.

The radiator is a recored 4 row with 24 fins/inch, so that should not be the problem. I am running a Black Magic 150 electric fan (~2500 cfm). It cools it down pretty quickly.

I might take another look at the timing. Currently I have it at 12 degrees btdc. I am also thinking that it might be time for a new distributer. Think the vacuum advance might be getting stuck at times as I get some hesitation intermitantly.

Do not want to take it on any serious crawling trips until I know it is not going to get too hot.

Thanks again . . .:D

my 305 does the same thing, mine will stay right around 190-200 and oil pressure does about the same too,except mine usually stays around 30psi when warmed up and idling.