Changing Thermostat

[mad_4u]

Hello everyone,
I have ford explorer 2006 V6 4.0,
I was thinking to change my Thermostat the OME to Mishimoto
the OME opens at 195 degree Fahrenheit the one i am thinking to install opens at 160 degree Fahrenheit.

I live in a place with lowest temp in winter are 25 degree and in summer between 40 to 50 degree.

i have to replace radiator ever year as the getting heating High-pressure from the engine.

what you all think and what's your recommendation ?

 

[Boomyal]

Might not be a good idea as the ECM is programmed to look for the higher temperatures. If the engine runs too cool, it will always be trying to enrichen the fuel mixture.

It might be a better idea to install a lower pressure radiator cap which will let coolant into the overflow tank sooner if the pressure is exceeded. I am not sure about the V6 but my V8 uses a 20 lb cap and I will install a 16 lb.

There also might be other reasons your radiator fails. Try doing a search on 'failed explorer V6 radiators'

 

[Flag Gibby]

At 160 the engine will never get out of closed loop and will run like crap with a complete lack of power etc. (I know this first hand because of a failed thermostat that was opening at that temperature). If the radiator is failing every year it sounds like the radiator cap has failed and is not opening like it should causing excessive pressure buildup in the cooling system. Like mentioned by Boomyal, put a 16 lb cap on and you should be good to go.

 

[Markaprice73]

I would say you need to go to a dealer and have the PCM re-flashed to the latest update. There have been some updates to address this issue. Revised cooling fan operating parameters. I'd imagine to have the radiator fan turn on (spin faster) sooner. ..I agree, you may have a bad radiator cap.
Also, possible you are getting cheaply made radiators. Maybe improper coolant.