Experience with 160 or 180 thermostat?
 

I make about 300 passes a year on my modded ls6. No heat issues but I do have random knock retard that can't be attributed to gas or advanced spark. Thinking about cooler thermostat. Any suggestions?

Highly recommended (I'd go 160*), along with the appropriate/accompanying adjusted fan settings (done through computer reprogramming via HP Tuners or EFI Live etc.) as well of course. :yesnod:
Simply put, the car should pull less timing at 190 degree coolant temps than it does at 210+.

I have seen just the thermostat for sale as well as the whole housing with stat. Is there a difference? I have HP tuners. What temps should be used for the fans?

Yes, I think it depends on what year your car is. I know most (all?) C5s can only use the (more expensive) one with the full housing attached/included. C6s were/are able to go with the cheaper freestanding t-stat.





You can maybe check out the HP Tuner forums and/or talk to almost any experienced LSx engine tuner about that part as there are a few different parameters (percentages/fan speeds and at what temps etc.) to set. I don't have my own software so I can't offer much help there but I know it's not difficult to set up at all.