I want to put a coolant temp shutdown switch in my truck. They are available to shut off at different temps. What is the maximum safe temp for the 6BT. Thanks.

 

some temperature just below the boiling point of the coolant would be ideal. Beyond that it's not going to matter much.

In diesels the warmer the coolant the more efficient the motor should run. I now run a 195F thermostat.

 

I wouldn't put a coolant shutdown switch on rolling stock. An automatic shutdown closes off some options in an emergency. If you're worried about it, put in a loud alarm, and leave the options, ie sacrifice the engine to move a crippled truck to a safe place, to the operator.

Oil and Coolant shutdown are for stationary engines where there is no foreseeable danger if the engine suddenly quits.

That said, if you insist, it will run all day at 240° without boiling over if the cooling system is in decent shape.

 

I've debated over a shut down switch, I've been in trucks that have shut down and it can be interesting, that's why I want the shut down to be at the highest temp possible with out damaging the engine. Thanks

 

How about just a big red light on the dash? I just can't imagine a scenario where an unexpected & unrecoverable shutdown is desirable. The vacuum reserve on these trucks doesn't last long before the brake pedal turns to wood.

 

A light or alarm is probably the best bet besides the brakes the power steering is handy too. Thanks