UBY289

Looking for input on the advantage or disadvantage of using 160 stat or 180 in a 289. I know it will run cooler with the 160 but is ther other issuce or concerns ...

TexasAxMan

Skip the 160, it'll never reach a proper operating temperature.

UBY289

So it best to be at 180 than lower.What it will it do other than make it run cooler. How hot is to hot over 180?

TexasAxMan

An engine really needs to get to 195* or so to be most efficient

Derf00

195 is the 'Best' temp, 180 is ok for hot regions like Arizona (or southwest U.S.). I don't think Ontario Canada qualifies as either hot or Southwest U.S. ;-)

160 like TexasAx already said is a no go. The only reason to run a 160 would be a 100% track car (either auto cross or drag queen). That's it.

UBY289

Thanks for the help.

67mustang302

195.

Engines are heat engines, the colder the engine is, the more heat lost during the compression/expansion phases and power and efficiency drops.

New cars are all running with operating temps of 200-215, depending on cooling system design using 195 stats. Run the hottest you can without having the engine so hot that detonation or excessive wear is a problem.

Starfury

+1

The thermostat controls the lowest temperature the engine runs at assuming the cooling system is up to snuff. The engine was designed to run with a 195F thermostat, so that's generally what you should use. If the car is overheating, you have other issues.

musnicki

I put a 150 in mine....I've kept my car running for over 8 years so far and every day I learn something new from this forum. Looks like I need to switch it out for a ~180.

James

67mustang302

The only reason for a lower temp thermostat is with blower/nitrous setups where you generate so much heat during combustion under power, that you need to control the heat to prevent detonation.