I took a 180 stat and compressed the spring slightly with a piece of coat hanger and created a stat that opens at 186. Compare the springs on a 195 vs. 180. The 195 has a stiffer spring. So, you can't take a 195 and create anything less but you can modify a 180 to anything higher by the size of the shim under the spring.



I know you guys will have better ways other than using a coat hanger. However, it was the quickest, easiest thing for me to do at the time. Peace.

 

What are you going to do when that coat hanger corrodes, rots, and possible jambs the thermostat or even tears up your water pump?

 

New water pump and be content with a 180 degree stat, I'm guessing.

 

That's not a very good idea. At least not with the coat hanger... and what's the big deal about 6 degrees? It's not really going to make any difference. If it did they'd make 185 degree T-stat.

 

Thanks

 

Some of the later years throw cel's with the 180's I think which could be why the OP would do this. Maybe he still wants to lower the temp 10 degree's and get away without a cel. I think it is a nice concept, but I would be hesitant of doing it with a coat hanger.

 

I wouldn't chance it. I always use Fail-Safe thermostat's. If they ever crap out on you, they'll lock in the open position so you can get to where you were going without risking overheating you engine. cheap insurance. only 11 bucks.

 

But it's that free coat hanger metal that will free float through the system that presents a problem. T-Stats aren't made of plain steel -- HELLL---OOO!!! MCFLY!

 

coat hangers aren't made of steel either, or the wet clothes you hang on them to air dry would rust them out.

 

clever, but WTF for ?