How long to cool down....

[67SniperHockey]

Just curious on your guys’ experience. In racing applications I’ve experienced this - but that was with 500hp motors in dirt.

440 mild build - stock 26” rad with steel fan and shroud. Typically doesn’t get hot while driving - creeps up to the first line on the temp gauge at idle but doesn’t seem to be any issues while driving - but man the top of the rad is still really hot to the touch even an hour or two after being shut off. Is this typical for you guys? Wondering if I have a hot spot/air somewhere? Humidity is low, in garage, temps in 70s/80s. Cap is good, level is full and no leaks.
Pic of a random guy checking the car out at Dairy Queen today - ha! Thanks guys!

And is the first line circled on the temp gauge 190? 195? Would like to have a general idea....

 

[myk r sanchez]

Well I wouldn't be relying on stock instruments to tell you what's going on with the car. Either verify the temperatures with an aftermarket gauge or an infrared thermometer. My charger will climb up to 200* at shut off and stays that way for about an hour or so afterwards. I have a stock 440 with an ECP aluminum radiator and an Edelbrock water pump...

 

[beanhead]

Heat soak, no big deal. As said above note the gauge reading, then check the temps at the thermostat and/or sending unit area immediately after shutdown with an IR thermometer. I had one sending unit where 185 would have the needle pretty much straight up the middle, replaced the sender and now 185 points the needle to about 1 o' clock.

 

[67SniperHockey]

Thanks guys. Anyone else have that high of temps that long after shutdown? Next step is to wrap fuel lines, phenolic spacer, and hood with scoop and an aftermarket temp gauge just to be sure.

 

[Ranger16]

Same as above. Mine runs 180°, but will climb to around 200° after shut down. Remember, the engine retains heat, but the cooling system is shut down. Perfectly normal and expected.