big_mike
I'm Awesome
Its all based on what is in the PCM programming. Almost every engine I have ever messed with pulls timing when coolant and intake air temps are elevated. When you drop the coolant temp the air entering the engine also cools down which is practically free HP. Finally running cooler also helps keep the clutch fan from engaging. The clutch fan can have a huge effect on ETs as well even if it is not fully engaged. The cooler the engine runs the more it free wheels.
Clutch drag is real paracitic loss, we can agree there. But coolant temp does NOT effect air temps in the manifold. Long discussions about this on LS1TECH years back concerning guys running the Weiand aluminum intake over the composite FAST. Only hp differences were in design, air temps we're not effected. The air does not stay in the intake long enough when the throttle is open and air is flowing. Yes there is a few degrees heat soak if sitting at complete idle but even then it's minimal in a NA engine.
Intake air temps are effected by weather conditions and potentially engine bay temperatures. If your running a open element in the engine bay you'll see higher temps from sucking the hot air trapped under the hood than from the stock box drawing air from the fender. And we can agree again hotter air temps effect fueling and decrease power. Cooler air charges burn better in the chamber making more power.