Thermostat

[khouse]

Just curious on whats the recommended thermostat on stock 77 302 2bbl 160,180 or a 190. Is running a higher temp or lower temp better. Mine is starting to run a little hotter going down the road and ideling. Going to change thermostat and flush out coolant. I dont see any leak around water pump so I'm hoping thats all it is.

 

[Bully Bob]

Newer veh. req. hotter runn'n temps.

You (& we with older rigs) should be fine with 180deg.

1st, clean the sender & connection., then dry-mount, i.e. no teflon tape.

Take the old 'stat out & heat in a ***-o-water...watch to see if it functions.

Reason being., your heat issues may be in the rad. or worst case., the block.

Yes., a "flush kit" is "cheap" & gets the whole system , not just the rad.

Putting the chemical flush/cleaner in 1st. is also helpful.

Fan belt snug....don't go over 50% coolant as that can cause higher temps.

HTH

B