On Chevy/Gmc 454 engines. Running HOT.

[Lakota Wolf]

I would like to pass along some info I have had for many years.

Concerns the Chevy/Gmc 454 big blocks. These engines are work-horses and do have a tendency to run HOT.  If you have backflushed your radiator, changed thermostat, hoses etc and still have an issue with running HOT, Don't dispair ,, Its your water pump.

I have serviced over 100 454's with heating problems, even a good gm mechanic will tell you,, the water pump is undersized for the heat that the 454 engine puts out. PLUS the 454 has small water jackets. Around 40-K miles the issues begin. Change your water pump with a quality water pump,, (dont always settle for cheapest). Use good antifreeze mixture, NEVER EVER ,EVERRRRRRRRRRRRR, run 100% pure antifreeze,, trust me, to much of a good thing isnt always good.  NEVER EVER use radiator sealer with the pellets. It clogs the water jackets at the back of the engine block.

Always us a 4 core radiator,,, 2 core (the size that are in cars), dont have the volume to cool. Added bonus is to ADD aux, electric fan with an electric fan Thermo coupler switch.

I pick up used electric fans at local scrap yards for cheap, and auto parts store has electric fan thermo coupler switches for around $17 to $20... I have saved and cured many 454 work horses.   Hopes this helps someone out there with a 454 engine heating problem.

(Based on the fact you don't have an obvious blown head gasket etc.)

Note,,, Edelbrock  No longer has the 794 CFM (Rodechester 800 CFM)  Carburators available.

Holly has a compatable Carb, with spreadbore design.

Maybe if your lucky, local autoparts shop has one on a shelf.