A question about engine temp?

[77SudTi]

it all depends on how sensitive your thermostat is. I have learned that there is a vast difference between thermostats, no two are alike. Some open at 80, or 85 or even 90 (I had a new one that didnt open until after the temp warning light had come on), and may not fully close again until they reach 60, others may close at 70. I dont think there is any such thing as a 'perfectly performing' thermostat valve. I also dont think that a thermostat can be fully open at 80 degrees and fully closed at temperatures below that, there will be some leakage between those temps and hence a lower temp when coasting downhill or driving in cold air.

As long as your engine reaches 80 degrees (the time it takes will vary due to our all very different thermostats) and doesnt sit too high or too low all the time, then I think you have a good working thermostat. When your cooling fan kicks in to control temp in traffic or hot weather has to do with the thermatic switch, which again probably have variable tolerances across the board.

If your really worried about engine temperature, install an oil temp sender and gauge for the bigger picture...then there will be a new thread on how hot your engines are getting...

[spottie]

The thermostat adjusts the temp by opening and closing allowing coolant to flow through the radiator thus regulating the engine temp. In theory the temp shouldn't fall below the opening temp rating of the thermostat once running (usually around the 80deg mark)

[77SudTi]

Quote:

Originally Posted by 33gold The thermostat is there so the engine can heat up quickly, period. put one in some boiling water and watch it's reaction, it isn't electronically controlled after all! Personally in warmer countries i think your better off without it; I would rather run colder than hotter.

[ALFA33boxer]

OK, in theory and in practice if you check the coolant tank and look inside when you have just turned on the engine, the coolant shouldn't move or circulate in the tank, until the thermostat is opened to allow the coolant circulate through the radiator to cool down.
Sh*t, the coolant in my 33 circulates from the first moment I start the engine and when the temp gauge is showing only 30-40*C

[gritsop]

Hi,

Coolant should circulate in the tank regadless of the thermostat being open or closed. After all coolant flow is an indication of proper functioning of the water pump.

Regards,

[Greek]

Yes , water pump is working all the time , just it doesnt go through the radiator when thermostat is closed. If there is no circulation in low rpm then the water pump might have a problem.....