Does the temperature of the thermostat in my 64/ 327-300HP corvette affect the performance of the motor.Seems to run cold in winter but ok in summer. Thinking of replacing with 180 degree stat.Would this be a good choice?

 

The thermostat just affects the warm up time not the performance of the engine. I believe that 180 degrees was original equipment.

 

The "thermostat temperature" is the approximate temperature that it JUST BEGINS to open, and it takes about anouther 30 degrees to open fully, so the normal operating temperature range for a 180 degree thermostat is 180-210.

In very cold weather, heater useage and conventive cooling of the engine, especially aluminum engines, can keep the thermostat from even opening, but the temp gages are not that accurate, so if it indicates a little under 180 in very cold weather, don't worry about it.

I believe the OE themostat on '64s are170, but 180 is a better all around choice.

Duke

 

Thanks for the replies on my thermostat question.I think i will just leave the existing stat in as it only runs a little cool during cold weather driving wich is very limited.Thanks,Jeff