Yes,but when the PCM learns that the car is at 180^ it will automatically make several adjustments to change the engine temp. Dodge put 190+^ T-stats in there for a reason. But this doesn't help your problem so I won't argue anymore.

How are you sure the OEM temp sensor is accurate?

 

umm. actually not. the mechanical t-stat controls engine temp, to either release the coolant to the radiator, or recirculate it within the engine.

if this is the only t-stat that has shown overheating, i'd just swap it. i'd also test the old and new one in a pot of water with cooking thermometer before install. its quick and easy compared to t-stat swap. look for where it cracks open.

 

fixin to go do that.....

 

alright took the tstat out and it runs right at 130......i checked the tstat and it opens up around 180 but it looks like its only half way.......im not sure how far is all the way open tho.....

 

i had an intake for my old truck with a new 180 in it and i cooked both of them again....the 1st one is from my dodge....the 2nd is the other truck.....i guess i threw my stock one away....the one from my dodge is a motorad and the other i believe is spectre

 

Is you clutch fan working?

 

i guess....with the belt on and i try to spin it by hand its pretty tight

 

In old carb'd engines, yes. But in newer fuel injected cars with computers the engine temperature is also controlled by the PCM using spark adjustment, AFR, IAT, and other variables. The computer will make adjustments to correct the engine temp, regardless of what T-stat is in the car. The T-stat cannot be the only variable that controls engine heat.

 

so, all the guys ion here with 180 tstats have faulty sensors that tell them theyre runnin cooler......

 

in your pictures both thermostats are open, and looking good. in the cooking test, its a little hard to control that magic temperature of 180 or 195. the 180 should crack open around that 175-180 mark and be wide open by 185. sometimes they're a little lazy and don't go wide open until a higher temp, like 200 or so.

anyway, the fact that you ran a nice cold 130 with no t-stat indicates that the rest of the cooling system seems to be working ok. for the $10 cost of a new t-stat, i'd just get a new Super-Stant, do the cook test, and put it in.

during t-stat install, make sure its seated in the right spot, temp probe down , and the gasket doesn't interfere with anything. also just peek down in the manifold and make sure there's no old gasket or other obstruction down in there.