77 Thermostat Question
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Joined: Jun 2011
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77 Thermostat Question
77 Small Block.
Replacing the water neck and figured I would change the thermostat as well. While looking for a thermostat, I see a bunch of options.
1. Corvette Thermostat, 160°
2. Corvette Hi-Flow/Hi-Performance Thermostat, , Robertshaw, 1955-1991
3. Corvette Thermostat, , Hi-Flow, Robertshaw, 1955-1991
Which one do I use? Is it better to use one over the other? Why would I use 180° over a 160° and is there an advantage to a Hi-Flow?
Thank you.
-D
Replacing the water neck and figured I would change the thermostat as well. While looking for a thermostat, I see a bunch of options.
1. Corvette Thermostat, 160°
2. Corvette Hi-Flow/Hi-Performance Thermostat, , Robertshaw, 1955-1991
3. Corvette Thermostat, , Hi-Flow, Robertshaw, 1955-1991
Which one do I use? Is it better to use one over the other? Why would I use 180° over a 160° and is there an advantage to a Hi-Flow?
Thank you.
-D
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,113
From: Crossville TN
If you have a stock cooling system, I would recommend a 180* stat designed for the small block Chevy engine. Your original T-stat is a 195* unit, but that was strictly for emissions reasons. The Chevy SB was designed to run at 180* for best all-around benefit. If you don't have a "Hi-flow" water pump, you don't need a "Hi-flow" thermostat. Buy a good brand name unit. You can save a few dollars buying the AutoZone 'special'...but your car deserves better than that.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 2,716
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From: Sulphur LA
St. Jude Donor '05-'06,'11,'13-'14,'16,'18,'19,'24, '25
Spend a little extra and get the Robertshaw 180*, if I remember correctly its a fail open T-Stat. You will still have cooling if it ever fails to prevent damage to the engine.
The Robertshaw is one of the best on the market today.
Neal
The Robertshaw is one of the best on the market today.
Neal
Le Mans Master
Joined: Apr 2001
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From: Was New Orleans but swam to Baton Rouge LA
Cruise-In IX Veteran
Are you wanting to test the thermostat? If so just put it into a pot of water on the stove and see if it opens at the desired temperature.
Race Director
Joined: May 2006
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From: Dayton, Ohio
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