My trans am runs hot, hotter than 220 and it approaches 240 regularly, It has the stock thermostat installed, would replacing that with a newer aftermarket one help reduce temp, and overall drive quality? If not what would you recommend to help keep it running at a cooler temp?

 

A different fan switch to make the fan cut on at a lower temp.

 

^^^^^what dmccain said.

Also check your airdam under the front and if your fans are working.

 

The airdam has a big chip in it...since I should probably look into getting a new one soon, are there ones that hang down lower and "grab" more air?

 

If there is a big chunk missing, yes replace it. It provides air from. 35mph andd up highway speeds to keep cool. Fans are for city and under 35mph. Your problem might. Be solved. Go find a used one for that year firebird 85 and up.

 

Also, if you haven't done so in a LONG while, flush out your old coolant (your radiator could have a gunk buildup) and replace your thermostat with a 180*. Using a Hypertech fan switch will turn the fans to come in at around 180* and run the fans down to about 170*. Just look at your overflow bottle and you can see what your coolant looks like now. If your bottle is really crapped up inside, you can easily buy a new one on eBay!

 

there is little reason to install a lower temperature thermostat than the stock one, especially if you drive your car during periods of lower temperatures. the motor must get hot enough to boil out any water vapor in the oil. water is a natural product of combustion and if trapped in the oil, will form acids that cause damage.

chances are that your coolant system simply needs a good flushing and a back fill with anti-freeze and distilled water. when flushing remove the top radiator support and clean between the condenser and radiator. a lot of debris can clog up in there.

if your radiator is particularly crusted up, a stock replacement can be had for under $100. that and a replacement of your hoses and rad cap will usually bring it back to 'as new' efficiency.

if your air dam is damaged, replace it. if your fans don't work, fix them.

do not assume that the wavy thing in the dash is a true indication of the actual state of nature at the end of the sensor. they are notoriously inaccurate.

if your car is not boiling over, it's not overheating. if it is boiling over, it's most likely due to a bad rad cap.