I found an article that talked about why its bad to put a lower temp thermostat on, something about how the oil doesn't heat up enough to flow right and it won't vaporize any water that might be in it because it's not warm enough?? Is there any validity to that? What kind of performance gains from a lower temp, 180/160?

 

I don't think we will really see performance gains from a tstat, unless you have really done some serious mods. I read the same article and it does sound logical, however I continue to run the 160 tstat. My theory is that the cooler engine temps will help with engine life. I may be completely off my rocker. My truck runs about 185 deg. with the 160 tstat.

 

mine runs at 185 also,with the 160

 

It does make very good sense. Since the boiling point of water is 212*, never letting the engine oil get to that temp will not allow it to burn off the condensation on the oil.
However
1. VERY few of us will ever see 150K on our motors before a trade in or motor swap.
2. VERY few of us try to keep oil in as long as possible. I use Mobil 1 and still change it every 3K
I think it is the same situation we put our brake system in when we go to bigger wheels and tires. The larger rotational mass will inevitably decrease the life of our brake system. Most will be doing upgrades or trade ins before it really has any acute effect.

 

My temp gauge never hits 210 anyway, maybe it doesn't matter? I'm always one or two ticks under 210, which would be what, 190-195? What is the stock t-stat?

 

195 I think.

 

If you change your oil frequently that is not a problem. My 180 stat actualy runs at 194, I think I'm going to do the tstat mod on the stock one to lower it some more.

 

Ok...then the important question is what's the benefit? Just engine life?

 

you can advance the timing farther with a tune

 

I think someone needs to make an electronic thermostat! Then we can control it to the degree. LOL, What waste of money it would be, but I garrantee someone would buy it.

Jim