Im looking to build a mild 400 for my 55 belair, i've researched this quite a bit but all i get from other people is the typical hear-say "oh yea always overheat". but i assume that most were just mainly from neglect.
I would like to know who out there has REALLY built, or ran these engines, and how much of an issue the cooling really is, i live in Las Vegas so im taking this issue very seriously. other than the obvious steam holes/gasket matching, and common scence, what did you do to remedy your issue "if any really".
Please only REAL owners or builders of this engine reply...as im really trying to cut through the wives tales
thanks for everyones time and bestowment of knowledge  

Yes, early on, the 400s were notorious for overheating problems if the cooling system was maintained meticulously.

That being said, With today's aftermarket radiators, cooling fans, and other products, overheating with 400s is not a problem anymore. Plus, top off your motor with some aluminum heads, that'll help keep your motor cool also.

Since you live in the desert, a four-core all aluminum radiator, water pump, and cooling fan system should keep your 400 cool and fine. you might have to play with thermostat temps a little bit, but that's not hard.  

Thanks alot,
that kinda what i was thinking.
I figured if i just use my head it should be alright.
but evertone i try an ask acts like its a monster problem. i mean its not like these things just melted down the second you turned the key off the assymbly line right.  

I have a 91 Chevy pickup with a 400 small block bored 30 over.If im driving normal and not constantly stoping and going it doesnt over heat that bad and im using a stock radiator.But if you use a four core radiator you shouldnt have any problem at all.  

I run a built 400 with a Black Magic fan and a Modine 4 core and it runs hot.  In traffic, it shows 215 to 225 at a stoplight with a Stewart stage 2 pump.  My sender is in the head.  My friend runs an equally strong 400 that idles at 185 with a Summit 2 row aluminum radiator.  His sending unit is in the thermostat housing.  My excessive temperatures have never produced an obvious problem besides freaking me out on occasion.