sbc ideal operating temp?

Hey all
Just wondering what manifold water temp my 350 chev should ideally be running at. Noticed it has been on about 180 degrees fahrenheit while on the open road, but closer to 200 to 210 fahrenheidt when in traffic, sometimes higher
Is this too high?
Cheers
Timbo

that would be depending a lot on what thermostat you have in there wouldnt it?

Just for your info I had a stock 350 which had done about 14,000k's and it used to run pretty warm quite often got up into the red on the gauge but not sure what temp that was.

Hey all
Just wondering what manifold water temp my 350 chev should ideally be running at. Noticed it has been on about 180 degrees fahrenheit while on the open road, but closer to 200 to 210 fahrenheidt when in traffic, sometimes higher
Is this too high?
Cheers
Timbo

If it never goes higher than 210F, then I wouldnt see any cause for concern.
Ideal running temp depends on how the engine builder set the size difference b/w the bores and pistons. The different expansion coefficients of aluminium and iron creating the perfect fit for one temperature range only.
IMO, an engine should be setup with at least 80C running temp in mind for increased efficiency. Lower than this just doesnt make any sense at all for any purpose, other than not having the motor transfer as much heat to the cabin. Also consider the weight of oil being used, using 60 grade oil in a motor running at 70C would be a drag..........

Chev's seem to run warmer than most other V8s, 190-195F is considered acceptable operating temp.