2.3 DOHC motor - correct operating temp

[fixkick]

Fixkick. 

Thank you so much for working with me helping me to understand my vehicle and my J23 swap. 

I FINALLY FOUND MY TEMP PROBLEMS WITH MY J23 motor in my 1998 Sport.   

The problem was the HEATER CORE!!!  That and I *THINK* I never got the system fully purged of air.

The Heater core was low flow and I replaced it (pulling the dash was a NIGHTMARE but I got it done) I think the bad core never allowed me to fully purge all the air. 

So. 

New Heater Core
Volvo 850 2 speed fan - baking pan shroud.
Volvo Relay fan controller
Motorad 2040-180 high flow thermostat
BMW 2 Speed fan switch  (1st speed 95C 2nd speed 99C)
Standard 50/50 Mix (I was running 60/40) 

Once I finally got the air bled out of the system  (pain it was) the  temps were great. It was 55F outside on a sunny March day in Virginia USA and the temps were fine.

Car runs about 185-190 at 70 Mph and creeps up to about 204 or so at a stoplight then the temp switch kicks the fan on the first speed.  

Temps dropped down to 190 before the light changed and I was on my way.

I got home and stopped the vehicle and let it idle.  She would creep up, 1st speed of the fan kicked on and then the temps dropped and she cut off.  

Before temps would just keep climbing at idle. I think there was still air in the system.

SO I think I'm good for now. as we come into summer and the temps rise we'll see how things continue to work out.

I just had to keep at it for finding the problem. glad I did.

nice or and job.
those temps look good for sure parked, and no car moving air flow is perfect test.
this car need free flowing  cab core, or it bypassed with full sized free flowing hose in the place of core, as one sees say in key  west FL.
thanks for sharing!!!!