4 banger runs too cold

I got a model A here with a C crank, 060 over, winfield head, 2x81, Mallory unilite, truck fan, new radiator, closed cooling system with a 7lbs cap here for some updates. To make a long story short, this thing doesn't get any hotter than 140F°, full speed, slow, stop and go or idle. But builds up some ugly water condensate at the oil filler tube. Is it advisible to run say a 170-180° thermostat just like on a V8 flathead?

 

If it was me, I would certainly install a thermostat - 170/180 should work well. The engine needs to be at about 180 or so to burn off the moisture and acids from combustion.

 

I had a Mooneyes EFI on my A and it never ran right due to the fact that it would never get hot enough. For whatever reason, it ran fine at sea level. I'm running a 170 thermostat with a pair of the English 97's and still runs on the cool side.

 

snyder's or brattons has onesthat clamp in the top hose and work well. i would recommend it

 

Bring it to Texas in the summer time you won't run too cold ......I promise.

Yes, put a thermostat in it also check your gauge first to make sure it's operating properly and calibrate it with another known good gauge.

 

I wish I had your problem. How 'bout we average your 140, and my 210, that ought to be just about right!

 

Good advise guys, I did put in a 170° 8BA thermostat and hold it with a big br*** wascher in the top hose. Did about 50 miles on it and it runs always around 170-180.

 

Both my A's run at about 140 or so unless it's super hot...then it goes up to 180 and holds. I'm not running a thermostat in either, and may go to one.