ok the first thing im doing when i get my truck back is changing the t-stat..now which would you recomment the 160 or 180?? thanks

 

180. A 160 is too low.

 

what would actualy happen if you use a 160? what when should you use a 160? sorry but i am curious what the big difference is..thanks

 

It would never reach the correct operating temp, causing your PCM to stay in warm up mode (which is an open loop mode), and you would run too rich. This in turn will foul plugs, sensors, and your cat.

 

and i guess you dont feel a big peformance gain with just changing to 180 Degree t-stat

 

Top 3 reasons why you should use a 160 t'stat.
You should use a 160 when you want...
3) engine to stay in open loop
2) when you want to waste gas
...and the no. 1 reason to use a 160
1) when you like to see your MIL stay illuminated
LOL
Sorry, too much Letterman.

 

than in what situation do people use the 160 t-stat than?

 

you're not going to feeling any performance gain wether you put 180 degree thermostat or 160 degree. Changing thermostats isn't a performace thing. I'm mean it is in the sense that it's better for your truck if you're hauling under load alot. but it's not going to give you any more horsepower or anything.

Try dodge forum stickers they're good for an extra 15hp a piece.

 

i just went fom 195 tstat to 180 today , cause yesterday i went to a place called hawk mountian nice little grade and my temp jump up was between 200 and 260 a little to warm for me. today went up the same hill just got a hair over 200 that i like . less heat better for motor and trans...Now maybe the 195 tstat was starting to go and not opening all the way but im happy with the 180.......

 

A 180* stat is good for a small gain in horsepower. Unfortunately, it is probably nothing that you will be able to detect. As far as going 160* , the law of diminishing returns applies. The fuel and timing maps in the pcm are more sensitive to map and iat input way more than ect input. It makes sense if you think about it. The idea being that lower coolant temps will lead to a greater o2 charge in intake air. This is true to an extent, but air moves through the motor pretty quickly. The motor has very little time to heat soak the air. The temp and density (nos)of the ambient air that your motor sucks in from the start makes a bigger difference.

Another thing to consider with coolant temps is the effect on oil viscosity.