Water temperature sending unit

[perrymitchell]

I want to install an aftermarket water temperature gage on my LT5 motor. Is there an access point to the water jacket somewhere on the motor where I can install a sending unit without having to remove the plenum where the factory sending unit is? Thanks, Perry

[Jeffvette]

Perry, one option is to cut into a coolant outlet pipe and then tap it and get a reading from there. But it doesn't look good. Other than that just creating a fitting in one of the lines going to the upper reservoir is an option.

What are you needing the gauge for?

[perrymitchell]

Thanks Jeff. You confirmed my suspicions. I couldn't find a location for a sending unit and I don't want to tap a coolant pipe for the same reason you mentioned so I guess the plenum has to come off one more time. The reason I need to install an aftermarket guage is because my motor is installed in a 67 Camaro. I talked to you breifly about it over the phone a week or so ago. I told you the motor made some horrible noises while cranking but you made me feel better with your explanation so I started it anyway. You were right, the noise went away, just the tensioners as you said. I promised you some pics and I will deliver.

So here is another question. How do I fill the motor with water? You can fill the radiator but until the thermostat gets hot the water in the radiator can't flow to the motor. However the thermostat can't get hot until the water in the motor heats it up. Please don't tell me I have to manually fill the motor through one of the coolant tubes. I thought about using air pressure through the radiator fill hole to force the water out the upper hose, through the tubes and thus into the motor. I probably need to remove the thermostat for now but in my case, it's not that simple. AAny advice?

[Jeffvette]

Perry, good to see you on board. Glad to hear the car is running, at least quietly now.

Filling rad:

1) Fill upper reservoir until it is completely full, it should take a while.
2) Start car, leave cap undone.
3) While car is running the reservoir should drop some as it is displacing air in the system.
4) Let car run, it will get hot enough to open the thermostat
5) Level will drop, add more coolant.
6) Seal up system and let it get hot.
7) Go for a drive.
8) Let it sit and completely cool.
9) Add more coolant.