I am going to switch out my thermostat but I can't decide between a 180 degree and a 160. I live in So Cal so it is always warm. Worst weather we get is rain. Winters are from 60 degrees to sometimes 70. Summer is 80-90. I don't know it would be ok for a 160 thermo in a daily driver but with the climate I didn't see a problem. What do you guys think? Should I take the 160? I usually drive during the day and the car heats up quickly.

 

I have a 160 in mine but I also have a chip that requires it, but I don't see a reason that it would hurt your car.

 

Make sure that your computer recongizes that 160 is full temp. Otherwise the computer will keep it in the warmup mode constanly and it will not run at it peak potential.

 

Yea I am getting the PROM changed. I was just worrying about overcooling but with the climate I don't think it will be a problem. Anything besides the PROM that needs to be changed to use a 160 with no problems? My car needs this mod because the stock temp is just too high and lags the car in the warm temps. Plus I need to do that TB bypass still.

 

I've got a 160* stat in my L98,and yes it does run rich when cold,but I haven't experienced any performance loss...MPG is a different story though.

 

I would go with a 180*, but be sure to have the fan temp switch changed from the stock rating. That will be more important than a 160*/180* stat.

 

I got my 160 and like it. Defenetly see more performance at cooler temps.

 

Another thing to think about is how you use the car.
If you use it periodically for commuting in stop and go
traffic the car will still warm up enough (200+ degrees)
to boil off the water that collects in the oil.

If its a sunday only car then you must pay strict attention
to changing the oil periodically so as to not allow the water
vapor to act on the engine internals. YMMV

 

I just put in a 160 this morning. After about 130 miles I don't notice any difference in the way the car runs, but it does only heat up to about 160 to 170 degrees on the highway but sitting idleing it will heat up to around 200+. Before it ran 195 to 215 on the highway but would run 235 + in town and idleing. So far so good.

 

Thanks for the responses. Yes it is a daily driver and the fan settings will be changed. The reason I am asking is that I can get a good deal on a 160 thermo from someone I know. Now that I see there won't be any problems with it I am going to get it and install it around the time I get my prom changed.

 

i have a 180 stat but the car never gets above 160 degrees (brand new radiator, water pump ect) and the computer runs fine no problems. the computer will be gone soon tho :lala: