Back on the road

[Slick Willy]

I finally pulled my 68' out and got it tagged and going. This car will never see winter roads again. My new job takes me down US23 here in Kentucky, which is to say the least hilly(eastern KY). The car is running @180 degrees turning 3500 rpm at 55. Does this sound normal to you pro's? Do you think the 160 thermo would help keep it cooler? Keep in mind these are mountain 4 lanes with 10% grade or better in places. I can pull most hills in 4 gear without much trouble. It is a stock 1275, I just had a complete exhaust system put on, brakes master cylinder, fuel tank, pump lines. A few more questions if I may. What Air filter setup would you recommend? What oil grade for heat index of 90-100 degrees? Any other input would be awesome as not many little Spridgets here in the hills.

 

[SaxMan]

180 sounds about right. I don't know if a 160 therm would make a huge difference. Chances are, once the car is warmed up, the therm is going to stay wide open, anyway. As far as oil, I run 20W50 in my '69. I actually find my car runs cooler at higher speeds because of the increased airflow.

 

[David_Doan]

i think all of our cars could benefit from an electric fan.

 

[nomad]

For air filters I like K N but they are expensive and there is some dispute over their effectiveness. Engine oil 20/50 Castrol. Agree that engine temp sounds right and a different thermostat won't help it cool any better.

Kurt.

 

[Slick Willy]

Thanks guys. 20w50 it will be. I still have twin SU carbs which work great but think they could use some tuning. I run about 50 mins on the 4 lane so keeping my eyes on the heat gauge. I was told once about adding something to my oil but can't find it when I do a search. Sorry about the crazy questions and all. I have been going to treatment for the big C and to be honest its took a lot out of me. As far as K-N air filters I seen a drop in mileage on my Harley, but it did respond better. Moss Motors has the KN filter w/ logo for $50 a pop. I think I will give them a try. I am very tempted to try the 5 speed route. It would be nice to grab one more gear. But really for the back curvy road driving I do for fun a 5 speed just is not needed, maybe a roll bar instead.

 

[59diamond]

If you have the ability to switch to a 5 speed I would encourage you to do it. It makes a world of difference and you get syncro in first gear which is a nice feature.
I have had a 4 speed and now I have a 5 speed and it is so much more fun especially when I get on the freeway at 60 or 70 miles per hour and the tach reads 3500 RPM.

 

[Slick Willy]

Yeah that would be nice. I have seen a few in the 8-900 range. Said to be gone thru, I still may do it. Just have to get in better shape. I have a lot of medical over head. I hope the insurance helps on that.

 

[59diamond]

Get well soon and get out there and drive.

 

[JPSmit]

and, probably the suggested oil additive was Lucas - I use it in mine and it helps the oil pressure.

 

[nomad]

All the best on your recovery. As to the transmission, I have cars with both the 4 and 5 speed and the only place you really regret not having the extra gear is on the free-way. The 4 speed is fine and enjoyable on the FUN roads!

Kurt.

 

[jlaird]

You all do understand that 180 degrees is spot on. Don't change anything.