The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Running hot, what's too hot?

You can not prove if something is a myth by theory or writing a blog. The Tstat is a simple bypass valve. Here is some opposite theory blog stuff from the webernet. Controlling engine temp with a thermostat to maintain constant operating temps, reduces engine wear, deposits and emissions. If the thermostat fails to close, which can happen if the sensing element binds up, the return spring breaks or a piece of rust or debris jams it open, the constant flow of coolant through the thermostat will prevent the engine from reaching normal operating temperature. This can cause poor driveability in cold weather, a sharp increase in fuel consumption, little or no heater output, and accelerated blowby and ring and cylinder wear.
In this case, it would be a band aid, if it helped. What would it really do to identify the problem? just put in a new Tstat. You can not compare older or newer engine designs. Newer race engines have improved water jackets, are made of highly thermal conductive aluminum.... bigger, better, aluminum high flow radiators with modern air flow features and electric, "thermostatically" controlled, fans. Apples and oranges. In a modern vehicle, it would totally screw up the computer. 90% of the old, old cars were in the FLAT, cold, east/mid west. When they were used in Arizona or in the mountains, they ALWAYS overheated. Anybody remember the canvas water bags? As a kid I remember going to California from PHX. They had specific water stations along the way. I still can't believe we had to stay overnight in a motel half way! It's 375 mi! But of course back then it was much farther....no freeway. 45-50 mph. Sorry, had a childhood flashback.