Radiator temp in/out and temp gauge readings

[mrdonut12]

Steve,
You've established that the radiator, at the current flow
rate, is capable of exchanging heat.
What you haven't established is if there's any water flow.
With that deep a drop in temperature, does that tell you that maybe
the coolant is flowing too slowly?
Use your Raytek infrared temp gun to tell you if the thermostat
is working properly.

George Witt
81 FC 35
Lincoln, Nebraska


--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "transit360"
wrote:
> I just got my new Raytek infrared temp gun and was getting some
> shots on my 8.3 Cummins pusher in my '98 QBRE Partybus. I shot the
> top of the radiator and it read 200 degrees, which is what my bus
> temp gauge said. I shot the lower radiator hose and it read 130
> degrees.
> I made sure to test location and reposition my gun several
> times, and this is what I got. Should there be such a drastic change
> in temp through the radiator? I was expecting about 15-20 degrees
> difference. Could this indicate any problems?
>
> Second question: My temp gauge on the dash has green (safe)
> markings up to 220 degrees. Past 220, it reads in the red. My bird
> typically runs at 200 degrees while riding. Is this normal? Seems a
> little on the warm side but this is my first Cummins as I have dealt
> primarily with 8.2 and 6V71 Detroits in the past. My other Bluebird
> partybus (same exact bus) runs at about 190, although I haven't
> confirmed it with the temp gun like the first.
>
> Thanks,
> Steve
> 2 '98 Bluebird QBRE Partybuses