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The t-stat's rating establishes the INITIAL point at which it opens to allow full coolant circulation. They have considerable hystersis designed in, so once the t-stat opens, engine coolant temp is going to seek its own 'natural' temperature based on other factors (coolant circulation rate, engine BTU output, air flow through the radiator, the 'health' of the radiator, integrity of the cooling system's pressure retention, Etc.).
You'll find MANY believe that selecting a t-stat with a lower 'pop' point rating will result in their engines running cooler. But, there's really no basis for that beyond the initial engine warm-up period...
I have owned two C-1 Corvettes over the years. I have always run 160 degree thermostats not so much to keep the engine cooler but for interior comfort when using the heater. My experience was that a 180 degree thermostat made the interior uncomfortably warm when using the heater. Using a 160 degree enabled me to keep the windows rolled up when using the heater. For me it was much better.
I agree with Jack, look at the thermostat as a door that opens at a determined temperature. Once the door opens, the cooling system and other engine components and driving conditions determine the operating temperature of the vehicle. If a thermostat does not open, it will effect the operating temperature...
Would the temp run cooler without the thernostat? If I leave it in what is best 160 or 180 degrees.
I run a 160 degree thermostat on my 59. My 59 has fuel injection, and the FI unit works better with mild temperatures. So I run the 160 degree thermostat to keep the engine compartment cooler.
I believe that 180 degree thermostats are preferred by many engine guys, however. Running at the hotter temp apparently prolongs engine life.
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