Engine won't warm up

[Animal]

Have a newly built 440,(no millage) 26" alluminium rad,180 stat & standard fan.(no shroud,not viscous)  Problem is the engine will idle at 1000 rpm for 1/2 an hour & only reach 100 degrees.
Car does not have exhaust at the moment,waiting for accurate.Is this ok.
Thanks Animal.

[General_01]

Are you sure the temp gauge works properly? That would be the first thing I would check.

[Animal]

Temp gauge ok,used digital gauge.

[General_01]

Not sure what to tell you then. 

[Duey]

If you're positive about the actual temp, the only option I see is the t-stat is sticking open... 

[68 RT]

Check to make sure there is a t stat.

[Steve P.]

Never hurts to double check anything. That said, are you sure you have enough coolant in the system? If it is low it will not read right..

While the engine is cold, open remove the radiator cap and start the engine. You should not see any water moving in the rad. If it is the t-stat was left out or is stuck open. Either way it is time for a new one.

Have you checked (HOT TO THE TOUCH)? After it's been running for a few minutes put your hand on the hoses to see that the temp is coming up. After a few more minutes check again.  After about ten minutes it will be very hot to the touch if everything is good running wise. I never trust one gauge. Especially if it's new or new to me..

Let us know how you make out..

[Animal]

Thanks all for input.Anyway the temp does not raise above 110, maybe when I road test it,temp might come up.Maybe it is a good thing anyway. What damage would it do?.
Thanks again Adam.

[Steve P.]

DID YOU DO ANY CHECKING?

[Animal]

I think stat is opening to soon,due to circulation through rad after about 10 min,at temp of about 100 degree.Only thing to do is to replaced stat,(160 or 180 ?) & see how that goes.
Maybe I'll just strangle the top hose with a cable tie.

[Steve P.]

Hahaha,,, cable tie.....   I use 180*..  More efficient..

[BigBlockSam]

 

[Animal]

Thanks for all the input,I'll get hold of a 180 stat.
Adam.

[grouseman]

T'stats don't always work right out of the box.