 Gil Baumgartner CTCI Authenticity Chairman |
|
Gil Baumgartner CTCI Authenticity Chairman |
|
| Subject: Thermostats |  | |
|
Thermostats allow the engine to reach efficient operation temperature as quickly as possible. They are designed to open at a preset temperature.
A 160 degree thermostat opens at 160 degrees the 180 opens at 180 degrees. Once the thermostat is fully open it has no control over engine temperature unless
the operating temperature drops below preset. In my opinion the 180 degree thermostat is the most efficient for the Thunderbird Y block engine. It allows the
engine to reach operating temperature fairly quickly which helps eliminate condensation and the black spatter on the rear bumper and trunk.
I consider the Robert Shaw (Cooper Standard) to be the best thermostat available for the early Thunderbirds 292 or 312. It has the largest opening available and a balance sleeve which equalizes the system pressure above and below the thermostat’s moving valve. Therefore the thermostat is pressure balanced and will respond to system temperatures only. It also gives increased coolant flow to the radiator. The part number for the Robert Shaw Thermostats is 370 160, 370 170 or 370 180 which ever you prefer. They are currently available from Summit Racing, Ph 330 630 0250 or Red E Parts Inc Ph 248 652 9601, www.redeparts.com They are no longer available from Prestone . Most stores that were selling the Prestone brand now sale a cheaper brand made off shore. | ||