i eneded up wiring my new set of dual fans so that they turn on with the ignition, because the wiring harness for the fan was so chopped up it was rediculous...but then I have a 160* stat in there....i dont' think the car will run a constant 160 degrees, but if it does, is that too low? my dad used to install FI setups on boats, and he always had to change the stats out to a 180 because anything less is too cold becuase fuel doesn't atomize at that low of a temp...well thats what the manufacture of these FI units said...is there any truth to this, or should I be alright with my 160* stat???

 

You are advised (I think it was Willie's post here) to use a 170 degree thermistat if you have a Tuned Port induction block. Mine is too high over that with no overflow hole either, so I'll be scouting one down

Bill

 

why would the kind of block have anything to do with it??

 

The TPI is engineered to burn hot
As noted in the sticky, BTW

Bill

 

oh..well I got a custom burnt chip and he put in a power programming feature that says I have to have a lower stat and premium gas...but I guess the concern is for my dad, he's all worried about it...but I don't think there would be a problem...

 

As it happens, I've had a HPP or High Performance Pontiac magazine sitting out since I referred back to finding regarding their 3rd gen Firehawk droptop story.
That same issue, as it happens, featured a letter regarding a 350 TPI (possibly) 1989 Bird where the owner claims there was a 161 degree therm in the car and he removed it to the stock 195, which is what mine is I believe. I've not heard of one being 161, or 171, vs 170, but according to the answered letter (c/o Ray Bohacz) the 160 should work, he adds, the TPI is extremily sensitive to heat due to it's long runners, having it run cool will aid performance, so that about answers it. Also the fact getting air to the engine is also crucial, it's advised to have the underpinings on, as mine aren't by example.

Anyway, I'll have to make a few different adjustments to mine to bring the temp down, as mine goes well over 220 if left sitting and running in daytime heat. Less a problem after sunset, obviously, by default. In terms of not having TPI, I'm not as well aware of mods suggested. I haven't had one myself.

My previous cars were Eldorado, 84 and two 1982 Cutlasses with 3.8 liters. These didn't have any real issues like the 350 is giving me now, but ran to the same mileage before moving on. I haven't had a 'newer' car with over 150K, yet. One Deville I had for a time last year had 350K+ on it's 4.5V8...that was impressive, but it had an obvious failing water pump. Make sure that component is good as well

Bill

 

I asked my friend last night, and he feels it's just too low to do 160, it won't help the fuel burn in the chamber cooling it too low. I'm not sure what to make of it considering the source, but I'll shoot for 170 degrees if I can locate one, or drill mine out anyway, for some passing relief.
Bill

 

well all the parts store only carry a 160 or 180...maybe i'll pick up a 180...a mechanic is coming over tonight to tune my motor a little bit, i'll see what he has to say...

 

Someone here posted on a location for it, but I forgot to take notes, try some key searches to see

Bill