Keeping it cool
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 3,315
Likes: 17
From: Near Jacksonville Fl.
Originally Posted by Tom Porter
Does anybody suggest that I change my thermostat to a lower temperature range, say 170 degrees. Would this help keep the temp. down in heavy traffic?
The only way to reduce the engine temp is to increase the size of the radiator.Changing the thermostat only changes the point at which it starts to open.
Changing the fan settings will help some but will not change the stablized temps.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 2,203
Likes: 63
From: Staten Island NY
If you run a lower temp T-stat AND install a fan overide switch (either a manual switch or change to the ECM) you can keep the coolent temps down even while in traffic.
The stock radiator is up to the task on a stock engine. Though many will argue with the benifits of running cooler.
The stock radiator is up to the task on a stock engine. Though many will argue with the benifits of running cooler.
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 4,816
Likes: 132
From: Plano TX
I have a 180 degree thermostat and the fans are adjusted to come on earlier. Coolant temps run between 192-205. Even in the summer. Before I did this, my coolant temp was running around 220-230. Ouch. Transmission also runs cooler too. Heat will fry these A4 trannys. I guess if I lived up North somewhere, I might leave it alone or only run a 180 during the summer. It too dang hot here in Texas
