How to tell if the water pump is working? And What's normal operating temp?

[Maj]

Can I get some advice on my '84 GM please

I've checked the manual and it says squeeze the radiator hosing and if you can feel a surge when you let go it's pumping OK. I can't squeeze mine at all, it's solid with pressure. I bought a new radiator cap recently and since I fitted it the system stays pressured up even when cold? Is that normal?

The main top radiator hose feels very hot to the touch after normal driving but I have no way of telling if it's actually too hot. If I get a temp gauge and fit it what sort of numbers should I be seeing?

This has come about because I have an "under load" misfire and I'm wondering if it's related to ther motor running too hot as I've replaced all the ignition electrics which is what I thought was causing it.

Thanks in advance

[86VickyLX]

Can I get some advice on my '84 GM please

I've checked the manual and it says squeeze the radiator hosing and if you can feel a surge when you let go it's pumping OK. I can't squeeze mine at all, it's solid with pressure. I bought a new radiator cap recently and since I fitted it the system stays pressured up even when cold? Is that normal?

The main top radiator hose feels very hot to the touch after normal driving but I have no way of telling if it's actually too hot. If I get a temp gauge and fit it what sort of numbers should I be seeing?

This has come about because I have an "under load" misfire and I'm wondering if it's related to ther motor running too hot as I've replaced all the ignition electrics which is what I thought was causing it.

Thanks in advance

195 is where the thermostat opens, 215 is where it's fully open, anywhere from there to 235 is normal. 235, being a very hot day with a/c on not moving.

[86VickyLX]

To check the operation of the water pump, open the cap (when cold). Start the car, have someone rev the engine, if the pump is working, the level in the radiator will go down.

[Maj]

Thanks and thanks zactly what I needed

[gadget73]

basically, water pumps don't go bad in such a way that they stop working. If the impeller rotted off to the point where it did nothing, your cooling system would be so horribly disgusting that you'd be well aware that things were not well.

[Maj]

Checked it this morning as you suggested and it's pumping fine. Water level drops about 1/2 inch when the motor is revved. Next step is to rig the temp gauge to see if it really is running hot.
Do you know if the water temp sender unit is connected to anything other than the engine light?
My MGM runs propane so has no injection systems electronics or emissions gear just an ignition control module.

[gadget73]

just the "replace engine" lamp.

[Maj]