'86 125 Force tempature question?

[iwaterdave]

I just installed a temp gauge on my dash and it seems to work fine but I notice something odd as the engine is warming up. The lower half of the head is getting hotter faster than the upper side of the head. Is this normal since it's closer to the exchast? or should I be looking for a gasket kit and open the engine up looking for clogged water passages? I'm afraid to do that since this is an old engine and I could break many bolts off in the process.
Any tips or info would be appreciated.
Thanks!

 

[Jiggz]

Re: '86 125 Force tempature question?

That's about normal since the exhaust runs downward. The question is if the engine overheats, if not it should be normal.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: '86 125 Force tempature question?

Cooling water runs downward from the thermostat and drains through the bottom of the head. Thus the bottom combustion chambers are getting cooling water warmer than the top chamber and will warm up faster. Eventually everything should approach equilibrium.

However, cooling water flow through the block is different, passing first through the exhaust jacket then around the cylinders and finally, through the thermostat. The pistons are cam ground (oval shape) to compensate for the uneven cooling and expansion. They become approximately round at running temperature.

TMI? Oops, sorry! LOL

 

[iwaterdave]

Re: '86 125 Force tempature question?

Thank you this makes me feel much better.