Radiator and Running Temperature

[DandW2100]

Hi
I have an F2100 and I noticed that the radiator is missing some cooling fins.

First, is it better to have the rad re cored or try to find another one ? Originals are a ton of money here , re cores might be too ! Any thoughts ??
Second, what is the correct operating temperature for the motor ? I want to make sure its not running too warm.

Thanks
Dave

 

[85Hokie]

When you are blowing snow with that machine - I would expect 95C (or a little above) is a good temp.
YOU want the engine to get hot - almost to the boiling point.

NOW getting the engine to temp is often a problem when in the cold - some block off passages to keep heat in.

A cold running engine is really not what you wish - and is bad for the engine to boot.

At the bottom of the radiator - it should drop a good bit 35+ C ( in summer time - I see a drop of 80-100 F )

A good infrared thermometer will give you a good answer as to what the temps are and where.

 

[GeoHorn]

A few fins missing from a radiator is no cause for concern. Back in the 1970’s I worked in a radiator repair station and if a radiator came in due to leaks we were allowed to close-off up to 20% of the tubes and return them to service.

 

[DandW2100]

Thanks for the feedback guys...
I guess its not that big of deal that some fins are missing. I only use this machine in the winter for blowing snow. temperature never goes above 170 F even if its mild outside. Glad I asked the questons. I was concerned with temperatures of the deisel getting high, but i see they might not be getting high enough.

I do have a infrared thermometer but it isn't a high dollar one. I will take it out with me next time and check temperatures in a few different places and see what I get.

Thanks again