Endrance

I was wondering what the stock thermostat is set to (03) and from there what degree thermostat should I get.


Thanks in advance,
Endrance

lizzyfan

Stock is 195 degrees

WannaBeGearHead

I think it's 200 degrees. Not that it would make a big difference though.

BLKSTANGER

They put the 195s in for a cleaner running engine. The hotter they run the cleaner they run. They will get a tiny bit better MPGs too. I always liked the 180s for my old hot rods. The last time I looked for a 180 I couldn't even find one.

Endrance

Not as high as I thought it would be. So a 180 would probably suffice, but is there anything lower and would it harm my motor in anyway?

WannaBeGearHead

You can find 180 degree t-stats at any local auto parts store.

WannaBeGearHead

No need to go lower. If you change to a 180* t-stat make sure you adjust when your fans kick on.

cliffyk

The stock thermostat opens between 192°F and 199°F, and is fully open at 219°F.

from the '03 shop manual"


This means that the target controlled engine temperature is 210°F give or take a few. The fan ON and OFF and a few other fan parameters in the tune need to be tweaked to take full advantage of the lower temp t-stat.

I run a 180°F thermostat¹ which is obviously is 20°F cooler than stock. This lets me run a bit more aggressive timing.

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¹ - After market thermostats are typically rated by the target control temperature--their opening and fully open temperatures are rarely available.