Thermostats

Just curious, besides allowing the engine cooling flow to start from the engine through the radiator, what other differences, if any, would there be in running a 165 degree thermostat versus a 185 thermostat?

Engine: 327 cui

 

I had an engine that called for a 185. I thought I would be smart and put in a 165. Guess what, it ran hotter because the water didn't stay in the radiator long enough to cool down. This is where our summer temps were in the 90s and 100s. Thats all I know about them.

 

On non electronically controlled engines it doesn't matter much but electronically controlled engines need the proper temperature for the injection systems to work properly. The computer sends more fuel to compensate for a cold engine.

 

What Engine Man said !!!

4TTRUK

 

I read that your oil will sludge up more if you don't run at least 180* on the coolant temp.

Blue