Thanks to all for the input and responses. I figure I'd comment once to all of them.
Thanks for the clarification regarding thermostat temperature ranges. I was trying to verify that 180 was stock (I'm pretty sure it is). I'll keep it there at this point.
My radiator was a new, 3 core, aluminum unit when Installed it four years ago. I had done a quick flush to clear out the water journals in the motor but I was in a rush because I needed the vehicle the next day, so another multiple flush is likely a good idea.
The radiator is as wide, and more cores than the original (as far as I can tell), but about 2-3 inches shorter. I assumed the extra depth would make up for that.
I can't use as mechanical fan. Not enough room with the new radiator.
I am currently using a curved blades fan with a shroud, centered on the back of the radiator, definitely wired to pull air. I verified with a paper towel being held onto the radiator when I first installed it.
I did some reading and video watching and it seems straight bladed fan pulls a bit more cfm, so I bought one. I believe it's a bit more cfm than what I currently have installed. I don't see it doing any harm in installing it, so I'm curious now, for the sake of experimentation, as to if I see any difference in temps.
When sitting at idle, the temp stays steady at 180-185 according to my temp gauge. I haven't tested the gauge for accuracy, but it does stay steady at those readings. When the temp does go up to 205, I haven't noticed any boil over or loss of fluid, but I'll check again to be certain.
I live up in the hills, so the temp going up to 195 tends to happen when I'm climbing those hills, no load in the back, in not so hot weather, which is why I got concerned. In the dead of summer, it's gone up to 210, maybe slightly higher when going up the steep hills, but then goes back down when I'm back on level ground.
Once I get the fan installed, I'll see if that changes anything.
I want to add, I have no room up front to install a push fan as an additional method of cooling.
When I reinstall the heater core I figure that - a) I will have more fluid in the system which may help with cooling and b) I'll first do a thorough flush of the system before reinstalling any of the hoses. Is my thinking correct there in that the heater core adding more fluid may help with heat dissipation?
If, after all that, there is no change, I have two aces up my sleeve.
One is, on the front of the vehicle under the headlights, there were two spots for driving lights. I didn't have any so I added some black louvered fixtures because I like the look (see attached pic). I can add hoses to the back and direct them to the radiator for extra air to be pushed onto the radiator.
The second ace is that there is an old timer in my town that builds radiators. If I absolutely have to, I can have him build me one that is larger and will fit in the frame.
I can't thank you all enough for your taking interest and helping. It's been a while since Ive been on a forum that is active, and with helpful, friendly people wanting to send a hand.
I'll keep you posted.
