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Chris Dowling
Dodge Dakota
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2/13/2007
21:26:14

Subject: Thermostat
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Hey what deg. thermostat should I run in a 2001 5.9 R/T with 88,000 miles and mild mods done to it...



steamed
Dodge Dakota
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2/13/2007
22:46:51

RE: Thermostat
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no lower than 180



Fasstdak
Dodge Dakota
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2/13/2007
22:50:53

RE: Thermostat
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100% agree - no less than 180. Even Mopar Performance tested the Magnum engines and found they run best with at 185. (The factory 195-200 is only for emissions purposes...not performance)



macx
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2/13/2007
23:59:17

RE: Thermostat
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I've always been an advocate of 180 stats - can't help but reduce detonation tendency at least a little, plus it's long been reported to be the best temp for best power production.

But where to get a 185? I've never seen one.

Thanks!



Fasstdak
Dodge Dakota
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2/14/2007
07:02:15

RE: Thermostat
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185 is the operating temp of a 180 t'stat.



Chris Dowling
Dodge Dakota
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2/14/2007
09:12:52

RE: Thermostat
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Message:
Cool, thanks guys...



.boB
Dodge Dakota
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2/15/2007
12:24:21

RE: Thermostat
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I have a 2001 5.9, not R/T. I tried a 180* stat, and it ran like crap. Poor idle, poor mileage. Switched back to stock.

Then I reprogrammed the computer with a Hypertech box. On a hot day under a heavy load, I would get some pinging. So I put the 180* stat back in, and some Water Wetter. Runs great, no more pinging.

More power? Don't think so. But it does run better.

A lower temp stat seems to be a mixed bag. Some people try it and the truck runs great. Others have just the opposite. All I can say is try it, but be prepared to change it back.

Also, with any new stat, drill a 1/8-3/16" hole in the base plate. That makes purging the system a breeze.



Fasstdak
Dodge Dakota
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2/15/2007
12:38:17

RE: Thermostat
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It also depends on the ambient temp and wind chill...in the 40 degree weather out here (right now), it takes a while to really heat up. In the warmer months - no problems.



R/T STEVE
Dodge Dakota
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2/16/2007
07:45:34

RE: Thermostat
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i've got the 160 stat in my 00 r/t it has ran a lot better but damit is cold in the winter just rember that you must be willing to change it back if you continue on with it. but on hot day it is geat



Fasstdak
Dodge Dakota
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2/16/2007
11:17:12

RE: Thermostat
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The 160 is a bit too cold as the PCM looks for a normal temp range above 165 (depending on ambient and battery temp). Stick with the 180.

Yes, I ran a 160 in mine for a while - ran great in the cooler summer days but didn't have a chance to properly cool down the radiator in the 100 degree temps.




steamed
Dodge Dakota
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2/16/2007
17:08:54

RE: Thermostat
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Message:
cylinder wall wear rates really take off below 180. not much change between 180 to stock temps.



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