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According to FORD Motor Co a 13lb cap is the correct rad cap for the 2300 engine. Also I just read an extensive article on cooling systems and the experts in the auto cooling system business stated unless your running a NASCAR stock car a 13lb or 15lb rad cap is perfect. Also stated was the best running coolant temp for most engines is 195 degrees. Once a engine reaches 225 to 250 degrees oil, engine gasket and seal break-down and damage can start. They recommended running a 6 or 7 blade fan one inch off the radiator,special fan spacers are made, ( BE CAREFUL OF CLEARANCE IF YOU USE A FLEX-FAN ) and a radiator shroud if possible. One final FYI.. a rad thermostat starts to open at the temp it's rated at and it takes approx 16 degrees till it's totally opened. FORD manuals state that the 79,2.3Liter engine standard thermostat is 195 degrees and it should start to open at 193 degrees and be fully opened at 213 degrees. Thus FORD states 213 should be the max temp you see if everything is working correctly on a stock 2.3 liter motor. Just some info I wanted to pass along. Ray Hofmann
