Thermostat

[Alfredo E.]

Could anybody explain me why do you change the stock thermostat? (for a 180 degree, for example).
Which is the advantage? If I change it, I must change another pieces too?
Thanks a lot.


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[Ira]

Lets see if I can take a stab at this. First of all, the only advantage of putting a 180 in over a 195 is that the engine would run cooler and the heat would work sooner in the winter.

The disadvantages are: The heat would not be as hot as with a 195...your fuel economy and engine performance would suffer. The reason for this is because these engines are computer controlled and the computer is designed to develop the most economy and performance at the higher temperatures. If the computer senses that the temps are not getting hot enough (as with a 180 degree thermostat), it will do anything it can to get the temp to increase...in other words, it will think there is a problem and try to change whatever is necessary to increase the temp. The fuel injection's version of a "choke" will not totally shut off because the computer thinks the engine is still cold so it will keep the "choke" on until the engine warms up.

Personally, I would not want to go with a lower temp thermostat than the 195 because of the loss in economy and performance. The efficiency of an internal combustion engine actually increases as the internal temperature increases.

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Ira

91 XLT 4x4

 

[91expl-sport]

ATT Ira

I have a 91 Explorer with a 180 degree themostat and I just ordered Headers and also purchasing a SuperChip next week. Can the chip be programed to know theirs a 180 Themo..

 

[Ira]

I can't answer your question about programming the chip. That would be one for techs at Superchips.

As for the headers, give me some info about them...where you are purchasing, brand, price, etc. That is something I am thinking about doing for mine. Also, keep us informed on how the installation goes and what kind of performance differences you get. I am very curious about it.

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Ira

91 XLT 4x4