I have been here before with some overheating questions. I have more questions now than answers. I have a 62 544 with a 69 2.0 engine. Engine has all new gaskets, seals and lifters. Standard radiator, which seems to have good flow. and fan. Has two 7 inch electric fans in front of radiator. Has a working 160 thermostat(but has also had a 180 working thermostat) 32/36 weber carb conversion, rebuilt, standard 4 speed with rebuilt rear end with 4.1 gears. Distribution tube has had the ports enlarged. Normal antifreeze mix. Original temp gauge and sensor.

Problem: engine experiences run on/dieseling after shutoff so I assume rich or timing slightly off. However runs very well.

Situation: I drove to go to a show today, 75 miles with long stretches of 7% uphill grade. Outside temp ranged from 75 -85F degrees. (when temps get above 100f here the temp gets close to the high white mark) Cruising at 62mph on relative flat land, I was sitting just above middle on temp gauge. Once I hit the hills the temp got very close to the white high area on the gauge.

So the questions. So how accurate are the gauges, should it run that hot going up hills? Hot much will the richness effect temp? Has been very difficult to dial this car in. Electric fans are pushing correctly but seem to make car run warmer when at idle.Did not use them when running at cruising speed. Drove up without any problems at all.