160 Degree Thermostat

[Firebirdjones]

That I am not sure, but I'm willing to bet that setting could be changed in Hptuner,,,although I don't remember seeing that anywhere.

[mrr23]

Correct me if I'm wrong but doesn't the temp sensor need to see 180ish to see that the eng is warmed up so it will go into closed loop?

no.

[00fxd]

no.

mrr23
Could you please elaborate then, in your opinion what is the trigger to let the ECM know that the engine is warmed up and at what temp?
Frank.

[mrr23]

looking at the ECT vs IAT to Enable Closed Loop, it goes into closed loop at 92*F

[00fxd]

Interesting, Thanks. What then could be possible problems with running a cooler than recomended stat on a mostly stock typical EFI system?
Frank.

[mrr23]

the only problems would be not getting the engine oil hot enough to burn out the condesation that builds up when the engine is sitting and not running. yes, moisture gets into the engine when sitting overnight. this only happens on short distance driving. the only real reason for running such a high temperature thermostat is to decrease emissions. the higher the temp, the lower the NOx and other emissions.

i read in a mag where a guy with a 468 cid mopar ran mid 11s through cats and passed emission for 1995? era.

[00fxd]

Yep, short trips are a killer.
Thanks mrr
Frank.

[DKSS00]

About where does your temperature gauge stay just normal driving? I just installed a 160 thermostat and previously had a tune where my fans were set to come on at 174. Still sitting just slightly below the 210 mark on my temp. gauge.

[mrr23]

temp gauges after 1998 are useless. they are no where accurate after about 120*.

[DKSS00]

temp gauges after 1998 are useless. they are no where accurate after about 120*.

Ok thanks, was just wondering as I saw no change whatsoever as far as the gauge reading goes.

[Firebirdjones]

Mrr23 is correct. After I installed my 160 (that actually opens around 172) I noticed very little change on the gauge reading. It was only very slightly lower in temp, and I mean slightly, but still appeared to be running over 200 degrees if going by the gauge only.

But.....hooking up the laptop and using the scanner, the engine is infact running in the mid to low 170's on a cool day,,,when it's warmer the fans work pretty hard to keep it around 180 degrees.