I would recommend a slightly lower thermostat. The temp is when the thermostat opens and water begins to flow from the engine to the radiator. On a hot day (all summer), do you really want the water hitting 180 before flowing? I think the radiator and cooling system has to play catch-up at that point. I had a 160-degree in the 283 I just pulled out. In the high 90s, the engine would stay nice and cool.
I also installed a 7-blade fan and a fan clutch. I didn't get the fan shroud on yet...found out I need to modify it.
-Brad
