I have a 1988 Chevy Silverado with a fuel injected 350, completly stock.

I'm having a few problems

1. The motor has been over heating in the last few days.

Here is what I've done, Put new anti-freeze/water in the radiator and replaced the heater hose.

I've been told it could be an improper antifreeze/water mixture, a bad thermostat or a lack of vacuum on the heater hose.

BTW, it is bad to start the motor with the radiator cap off?

2. I burn oil when I start it up and when I put it to the floor. I run about 25 psi at while driving but sometimes it'll fall to damn near 0 when at idle. I used to run 10W30 but a friend told me to use 10W40 and it hasn't been as bad about fallin real low while at idle.


Any comments?