
Originally Posted by
miked
recall from our basic physics that water boils at 100 deg C at atmospheric pressure of 14.7 psi (101,325 Pa). this is the case when we are not using a rad cap. if we are using a cap, we are increasing the pressure and as a result the boiling temp is also increased. add ethylene glycol (prestone, etc.), you further increase the boiling temp. and as the elevation increases (ex. going to high places like baguio, etc.), the boiling pt of water decreases. so boiling temp is a function of pressure.
meself uses 82 deg C thermostat on a 4d56 turbo (no intercooler). just overheated this monday due to a loose alternator adjuster bolt. temp reach as high as 240 F on the mechanical gage while the stock electric gage is just beginning to rise from the normal range. no abnormal engine sound or vibration present and truck pulls normally when at 240F. engine started right away after the tensioning. to answer sir edtf's question beyond 240F (115C) could mean a blown engine as per my experience. i also experienced running the truck before at 212F (100C) for about 10-20 mins.
me too have a question: why is it that some engines have their thermostat located at the lower hose (suction side) rather than on the upper hose (discharge side)? any explanation? thanks