Is this smart? I am wondering if this will work or I will get stuck with a thermostat that never closes back up and causes overheating. I run 205-210 right now. I ask because Iam moving to CA and will have to drive through Ariz/nevada (desert). I will also be towing/hauling a total of 2000 lbs.

 

It will work. I'd be more concerned about your transmission temperature though. Got a cooler on it? Temp guage isn't a bad idea either.

 

2000 lbs is nothing for your truck. I've kept my 'stat at stock and don't have near the mods you have though. Basically, with 2000 lbs, I'd bet that if it's ok without that weight, it will be ok with it. Otherwise the mods are ghetto anyway ...

 

Has the factory external cooler. Goes through radiator then the exernal cooler.

 

I was at autozone and the guy said that putting a 180 degree t-stat would tell the computer to throw more fuel at the truck. But doesn't a richer mixture mean lower temps? He said that at 180* the computer will be constantly trying to compensate.

 

richer means lower exhaust temps. lean causes higher temps. The coolant keeps the parts cool, not the combustion.

 

Thermostat should not be a problem. I have a NAPA one in mine since I read somewhere that it let more flow through than the Mopar one. Changed it when I was fixing the plenum leak. I have no problem pulling a 6000 lb trailer through the smokey mountains every year. I did add two transmission coolers though.

 

so your napa was a 180? Maybe i should not touch it...if it ain't borke don;t fix it. I am fixing my cracked fan shroud though...have a replacement for that.