OK, I'm running a 4-core radiator, 6 blade fan. Between traffic and the (future) Arizona heat, I'm thinking I should run a 180 thermostat. What do you guys think?

 

Personally I like them, but that is because I was told in shop class that they are better for performance. I haven't done any research to back that up, but have never had an issue with one that I installed so saw no reason to. As I was told they tend to be a bit more efficient, 195 was used for emissions. Again don't know if it is true or not, never had a reason to confirm.

 

I agree the 180 degree stat is they way to go. Keeps the car in its best performance heat range

 

I run 180* Mr Gasket high flow T'stats in every car I have. Best compromise IMHO... Very good temp regulation.

 

That's what's in mine and it works great! Randy C.

 

I had some idling in traffic overheating problems with my Goat (400-TH400) with a 4 core radiator, 180 degree thermostat and the thermo clutch fan (new and working). I switched to a factory flex fan and a 160 degree thermostat and no more problems, stays under 200, not an Olds though. My late mechanic buddy always drilled about an 1/8-3/16" hole in the outer edge of the thermostats, something about letting air out so it doesn't get trapped in the block when filling it. The Vista has a 350, clutch fan and 180 thermo and runs slightly hotter than the goat but doesn't get any worse in traffic, have to see what happens when the AC is working, next project.

 

Cool. I picked up a Mr. Gasket 180 High Flow from Summit. Needed to order a spare tire anyway, so figured I might as well grab it.

 

Correct. Prior to that, 180° was the industry standard for pressurized systems.

Should stay at, or near, 160° with your 160° stat.

With a well designed, and properly functioning system, one might see your 200° with a 195° stat.

Not relevant. Cooling systems are the same.

From what I have read, this little "mod" is worth a 5 to 15 HP increase in Hondas and V6 Buicks.

By design, air escapes through the bypass system. If holes were needed, they would already be there.

Norm

 

About 8 bucks, at Autozone.

Norm