160 thermo

[stingant0]

Can I just put a 160 thermostat in my car without a programer? I've heard people say that it is better to run the car at the normal operating temp than a lower temp. Something about the fuel and timing is better when the normal operating temp.

[DJ Taso]

Re: 160 thermo

Originally posted by stingant0
Can I just put a 160 thermostat in my car without a programer?

Yes.

[Injuneer]

If you don't lower the fan on/off temperatures in the PCM, you will probably not notice a lot of difference in engine coolant temperatures. In heavy traffic, slow speeds, idling, etc. the coolant temp is going to be right where it was with the stock 180-deg t'stat. At higher speeds, on the freeway, you might notice it running a bit cooler.

Lowering coolant temp actually reduces the engine's overall thermal efficiency = less HP. This loss is offset by a slightly cooler intake air charge because of the cooler intake manifold/head runners, so its little more than a "feel good" kind of mod. And, there will be a SLIGHT loss in fuel efficiency - you might never be able to measure it - and you will see a small increase in the emission of unburned HC's and CO. NOx levels will drop slightly.

Its a full "program" including lower fan on/off temps, and maybe a degree or two of additional timing advance that will give you a small power increase with the 160-deg t'stat.

[alenstein]

So changing your thermostat can lead to failed emissions test?

[Coop '02Z]

Failing would depend on how close you were to the numbers to start with.