engine temp question from newbie

[green bus]

I am looking to begin a WVO conversion on my vehicle. need coolant temps of 160-200F for the purpose of heating WVO fuel lines and second tank.

but my 7.3L IDI in a short school bus, with no cargo, at highway speeds for half hour or more stays at engine temps of 175F or less.

this doesn't seem right. shouldn't temp be higher?

 

[Exekiel69]

Welcome to the site, if you want to get higher temps on the coolant first check where You have the sensor on, also you can replace the tstat for one that opens latter and closes faster, that will get the temps higher.

 

[Mr_Roboto]

At your temps, you either have a 180* T-stat or it's just old and opening early. Go down to the International dealer and get a high temp (192 - 195*_ T-stat and gasket.

 

[green bus]

Thanks folks! I figured it would be the t-stat...i am new to working on diesels, and at the moment am working without much guidance or a manual. i appreciate your help!

guess the t-stat is the first step toward the conversion...

 

[akoldnav]

I bought a truck in North Dakota and drove it up the Alaska Highway to Anchorage in Oct 05. It took forever to get that beast heated up. When I got home I decided to change out the Thermostat, but it didn't even have one in the fitting. No wonder it wouldn't heat up.

After putting in a thermostat, I found that the truck overheats, so I ended up replacing the water pump, fan clutch, and then the radiator. It works well now.

I say this because you might have the same problem if you bought the buss from somebody you don't know.

I would definately change out the thermostat.

akoldnav