[DeTomaso] To thermostat or not to thermostat

[MikeLDrew at aol.com]

In a message dated 5/20/08 18 45 54, jimgray at cableone.net writes:


> My question is, since we always make a big deal about using the correct
> Cleveland style thermostat, what happens when there is no "hat" on a
> thermostat to close off the warm-up passages?  Does the water just go around
> and around in the engine?
> 

Yes, unless it is blocked off.   Some aftermarket pumps block off that 
passage.   Some engine builders will hammer a plug into the orifice normally blocked 
by the 'hat'.   In both cases, that then allows you to run a Windsor 
thermostat.

Although thermostats are a possible failure point, a good quality thermostat 
rarely fails, and their benefits far outweigh their liabilities IMHO.   As 
your engine builder pointed out, you can't run NOTHING there; a restrictor of 
some sort is needed to maintain appropriate pressure/volume.   

I would suggest running a top-quality RobertShaw 351C thermostat (part number 
333-180 for a 180-degree unit), available from Summit and others.

Mike


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