Thermostat Temp ??

[George Zeck]

In reviewing some prior posts -- i notices some are using a 160 degree thermo. I believe mine is a 190 due the fact that operating temp seems to be 195. Is this too high ?

Since getting it back on the road -- it seems rock steady @ 195 degree's so I never thought that was too high until I read the other posts.

Love to hear some other's thoughts.

Tx-

George Zeck
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[Dave Russell]

My thoughts?

If you use a 160 the engine is likely to run well above 160 most of the time anyway, except in cold weather. The cars just don't have enough excess cooling capacity to run at 160 in warm weather. Higher temp is actually good, because the engine runs more efficiently & it helps to remove accumulated moisture from the oil. It's kind of a personal preference thing. If you have overheating problems, a lower temp thermostat will only delay the problem for a few minutes.
D

 

[lesingepsycho]

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[dklawson]

Higher temps do mean greater thermal efficiency. If your cooling system isn't up to the task you can start with a lower thermostat but as Dave said, it probably just helps on short drives. I run a 160 thermostat but I do so in combination with a cleaned out cooling system, a 13 psi radiator cap, and coolant that for the summer is a mix if Red Line Water Wetter and water with just a pinch of anti-freeze. My car's cooling system works very well with that combination.

 

[George Zeck]

Thanks all. Cooling system works great and no overheating probs. I just figured (assumed) that cooler is better. and since op temp is ~ 195 ish -- I must have a 190 and the cooling system is doing it's job. I probably have 180 (frankly, I forget after buying it 2 years ago and many repairs).

Thanks all !!!

George Zeck