Closed loop happens at 141º. Most 160º thermostat's actually run at 174º which puts you into normal a/f ratio. Most tuners will alter the open loop table there anyway. The 160º theremostat will run the trans temps cooler as well as underhood temps. The fan settings should also be altered, but even in normal driving it isn't that big of a deal. My truck for example runs 180º or less at all times unless I'm in heavy stop and go traffic or at a drive through. My fans turn on at 195º and off at 174º.

 

No misfortune, trucks been running good for the last 3 or 4 years with that tune + updates for mods

 

zippy

Being in Texas the lower temp t-stat has helped with a/c issues in traffic. I do more city than highway driving so it is a noticable difference. Like others have said, a lower coolant temp means lower temps for everything else just about. If you don't have to get a t-stat w/housing just goto autozone and pick up the t-stat for 18 bux. You might be able to put 1 or 2* more of timing if that, but your intake depends a lot on what temperatures you're seeing there. Overall, if you adjust things for the 160 t-stat it's worth the 18 bux. If you do a mailorder tune it might not be worth messing with because you're not going to get the same adjustability typically.

As for headers, of course they'll create more power up top but you'll lose some torque down low. Just make sure you don't run a huge exhaust (3" all the way) because you'll lose potential power. If your plans are bigger down the road ie a cam, blower, or nitrous then yea do a good size exhaust.

Just like everything/everyone on this forum, to each their own. It's ultimately what you like and what you're comfortable with.

 

appreciate all the help guys!