1969 barracuda 383 formula s temperature/timing help

oldnew,

I would not worry too much as of yet. Check the fluid levels and ensure there is not a leak. Then check the resistance of the clutch...

Does it heat up when it is sitting, and once you are at highway speed is it fine? The manual states if it starts climbing at a standstill, then push the RPMs up and the temp should drop.

I would suspect a clutch issue, or a thermostat issue. Is there a fan shroud?

It may be that your timing is a bit advanced, but if it is not pinging, I would look elsewhere...