i'mgoing to replace my thermostat and install my trans cooler friday. i would like to know which one 160 or 180 deg thermostat is better for my 97 dodge ram 1500 V8 5.2l?????? the reason is im going to use my truck to pull my show car. thanks

 

I always recommend sticking with stock, but if you're hell bent on going cooler, go no lower than 180º. 160º is too cool.

 

Sometimes 180's will throw a code.. (Engine Stays cool to long) 160 is just out of the question. Stock is prolly best because it was designed for the wieght it is rated to pull. Trans cooler is a great idea. but Tstat def stock or 180.

 

don't use a 160, it will set off the CEL for sure.
the 180 might/might not.

 

if you run the trans cooler, run it through your cooler ONLY, not thru the radiator too. if you do wind up running a 180 thermostat, you can run your cooler lines thru the radiator as well, but only if you are running the motor cooler.

 

the two stage 180s wont throw a code.... in theory the gas will burn better in a hotter environment, so dropping your temp down by 35 degrees may not give you a clean burn.... also if you live in the north you should stick with stock, maybe 180....

 

180 is fine, will richen up your mix a tad which reallyworks well with mods like CAI's, Tuners, Exhausts & Headers which all work to lean you out a bit.
The richer mix definately will use more gas, but we are talking in tenths of a mpg here.
Ramit is correct, a two stage would not throw a code. In extreme north locals you may find you need to stick a stock one back in for winter driving.

 

hammer any issues with needing to change oil weights since the engine temp wont be as high?

 

I haven't. I don't think it's necessary. I had a '98 with a Magnum 5.9 in it for almost five years. The last three and a half with a 180 t-stat. Never ran anything but the recommended grade Mobil 1 in it and never had an isssue. 180 in my current Hemi for almost two and a half years and I still run 5w-30 in it...

 

yeah was just wondering, maybe itll affect the MDS since it seems to be so picky.