Running cool isn't the most efficient way to run that engine
Dave. I would only run that cool of a stat if I were
stationed in the middle of the desert or south of the border.
180° to 200° on you temp gauge is where you will get the best
performance and fuel economy.
These Stovebolt sixes will not have muck in the oil unless there
is an excess of moisture getting into the crankcase. Even the
extremely small amount of condensation that may accumulate when
the engine is cold will be boiled out as the oil comes up to temp.
Look to wear in the cylinder, worn rings, valve guides, a
cracked head or leaking head gasket, that's most likely where
your access moisture is coming from.
The machine that we are dealing with here was designed long
before I was born, which was at the beginning of the big war,
and remained with the same basic design with minor changes till
1962. To expect it to perform like a modern day engine is
wishful thinking. They will drip oil a little oil, they will
not get good fuel mileage, they will run nosier than your 2014
Silverado, they will stink the garage up over night, they will
need a tune up every 5,000 miles, they will need frequent oil
changes.
Nope, taint like the new engines and one is going to be
disappointed if they expect it to act like one.
Chime in here PreDave, you've worked on plenty of these old
timers. You think there is such a thing as a drip free
Stovebolt six half worn out parked in anyone's garage???
Denny Graham
Sandwich, IL
