So I understand running a 160 stat is supposed to keep the coolant temp around 160. What are the major pros and cons(if any)for doing this mod? Someone else mentioned to get re-tuned? I'm assuming so the e-fans know when to turn on? So it looks like all I need to do is change the t-stat and re tune the fans? Also I've seen 160*, 170*, 180* and I'm assuming factory is 190* stat. Is the 160* better than others? Thanks guys.

 

You would want to lower the turn on fan temps if you dropped thermostat.

But I see no reason to run a 160 unless you were hot lapping the thing all the time and wanted it to stay cooler for a shorter time. Otherwise a lower temp could reduce fuel mileage from a colder motor. If you arent over heating with the stock thermostat and don't see huge jumps in temps with it, then does it really need to be changed?? I mean they were designed to run at 190ish anyway.

 

For a stockish setup, I don't see any reason to run a lower thermostat.

Now on my setup, I run the 160 and keep my ECTs in the upper 170s to try and minimize the risk of detonation.

 

i run a 160 to keep this blower as cool as possible

 

Ok thanks guys for the info. This is exactly what I was looking for. I'm building a 370/ls3 top end and ordering all my gaskets sensors and water pump/t-stat and had been wondering about this. This is a NA daily driver, and probably won't benefit from it much. I'll probably just stay with the original one.

 

Your truck won't run 160 degree coolant temp. My 04 with a 160 t-stat, efans and the large radiator runs a constant 179-181 coolant temp whether at highway speed or idling for an hour in 100 degree Oklahoma summers with the A/C on. 160 degrees is the temp the t-stat is supposed to open at.

 

So running a motor TOO cool isn't ideal. But if your running a 160* t-stat and staying around 179-181* in 100* outside temps with the AC on, thatnsounds perfect to me right? So what kind of temps do you see in the winter while driving with the heater on? With a stock t-stat in 95-100* weather idling I see my temp around 210*ish sometimes. Pretty normal?

 

i see the same temps. maybe about 5 degrees less in winter

 

1992 pickup 5.3 My 160 stat on the highway when my electric fan isn't on stays between 174-176. I have had the same stat in my 05 gto and 08 vette and they both had the same temp on the highway.

 

the temp will depend on multiple factors including the radiator and what coolant is used.

I run as low as 165F on the highway in 100* ambient. My cooling system would be too much in a cold climate.