TR2/3/3A TR3 thermostat rating

[TFB]

My Clymer handbook says t'stat starts to open 158f,fully open @197F.
Moss sells 160f rated replacement,no mention of range so not sure if they have same 39 degree diff as original.
What temp rating thermostats are generally used?
Thanks
Tom

 

[TR3driver]

Those original thermostats were a slow-opening design, modern thermostats open rather more quickly. But that is a good thing, since it helps keep the engine from overheating.

I ran a 185 after getting the overheating problems sorted out on my 3A; but I'm still having issues with the TR3 so it has a 160 at the moment. The lower rating gives you somewhat more "margin for error" so to speak.

 

[Geo Hahn]

I, too, run a 160 because I often drive up mountains or in very hot weather and sometimes both at the same time. Not a cure for overheating but does give an edge when stuck in traffic or a slow parade of tourists going up the mountain.

 

[TFB]

Thanks Randall and Geo.I like the idea of a 160f because I am using a electric fan 185 on,165 off and with new alum rad. was hoping the fan would rarely come on,but 180 seemed like a more ideal operating temp,which now that i think about itis in about mid range of the original 158-197stat.I guess a modern 160 with the usuall 20deg. range would give operating temp of 170?
Thanks Again
Tom

 

[Geo Hahn]

As I understand it -- the tstat rating sets the lower limit. In other words, just because the thing is opening doesn't$ mean your engine doesn't get any hotter.

On mine the engine temp settles in around 180-185 when fully loaded up on a warm day.