Thermostat Rating

[97fxdwg]

On my '68 slightly-modded 302, I have a 4-row radiator working great but the water pump is now ready for the heap. Any suggestions as to what temperature thermostat I should use?

3-speed automatic.

California-driven 65° to 100° (10 days a year)

Thanks

 

[Ronstang]

It really depends upon where your car runs temperaturewise under normal conditions. If it runs at 170 then a 195 thermostat will cause the sytem to constantly cycle and the temp will climb then fall consistently and I don't like this situation so I run a thermostat as close to and under the temp the car likes to run when there is no thermostat in the system and a restrictor plate is in it's place.

 

[2nd Mustang]

Almost the same setup as yours, new stock water pump, 160 degree thermostat. It runs between 160 and 190, about 150 days/year.

 

[97fxdwg]

Thanks guys, appreciate the help.