Newbie using a laser temp gun.

[Alan_UK]

Hi everyone, I've just bought a laser temp gun from my Snap On dealer. Where is the best place to check the engine temperature? I am guessing right next to the glow plug in the top if the head??? Is this the best place to aim the red dot? Any more tips or tricks using one of these things on my car? It's a Savage 25 btw.
Thanks a lot guys,

Al.:thumbsup:

 

[GilBeQuick]

Aim that sucker right at the glow plug, that'll give you your best reading.

 

[Candyman]

Actually, you were right the first time. Try to aim it right next to the plug. This will give you the temp right at the top of the chamber which is were you need to measure. That's it. No other tricks or secrets. Just don't aim the laser at your eye!!!!!

 

[msly]

Originally posted by GilBeQuick
Aim that sucker right at the glow plug, that'll give you your best reading.

I agree, I usually aim it right at the base of the glowplug where it is screwed into the head.

 

[GilBeQuick]

Woops, so is it better to aim next to the plug, not right on it?

Crap, I don't have a laser to aim with so I guess it really doesn't matter for me anyway.

 

[Alan_UK]

Thanks fellas. I'll start fine tuning tomorrow. I've been looking in the manual for my 25 engine and I reckon optimum temp should be around 250oC.
Oh, yeah you were right about shining it in my eye. Hurt like hell but I bet everyone has done this "just to see how bright it is" am I right?!
No? OK maybe it's just me then!

Al
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[StrechM]

Measure all around the base of the glow plug, you will see a slight range of temps.

 

[Diver6127]

Rmember one thing, not all engines are the same. The manufacturer gives you a base line temp to strive for but also remember to tune for a sweet spot.

I was always aiming for about 235-240 on my engine but was still spitting out some raw nitro. I tuned it to 270 and was still getting a good line of smoke but engine seemed to be sputtering and starving for gas. Mind you I was still in normal operating temps. I tuned her down to an average of 248-253. Worked well and no more sputtering.

Too low of a temp and the operating temps will never be reached and the top of the sleeve won't expand enough causing early wear. Too high and you fry your engine. There's always a fine line but the line is different from mill to mill. Aim for the manufacturer base line and adjust tuning to the "needs" of the engine.