Using a pyrometer

Can anyone offer a quick tutorial in using a pyrometer to check head temperature?

I have acquired a nice little Raytec Pyrometer with a 0-525 degree range and although I know how to use the thing, don't know exactly the best point on the cylinder heads that will give me the most accurate reading.

Any ideas?

TMc

don't put your hand on the head to steady your reading. it's hot there.

H-m-m-m-m-m...So THAT'S where the aroma of grilled meat came from!

this is funny! i've only had my spyder for a month & i keep one of those 'pyrometers' in the car. after driving, that's one of the things i check. i'm still learning what's good temp etc.... but i've had realitive consistantcy pointing the thing perpendicular to the cylinders (parallel to the road & crankshaft) at the flat spot between the exhaust ports and valve covers. i've also noticed that if i try to remove any obvious oil/dirt the results are more consistant (i think it's a light refective thing?).
anyway, i never knew it was called a pryometer - i like it better than 'laser-pointer-temperature-reader-thingy' thanks!
-brandon

So Brandon...What kind of readings are you getting?

Terry,

After about a 10 - 20 drive on twisty two lane roads w/ many gear changes & rarely over 60