Hi all,

Just had a new heater core installed in my 2000 Ram 2500 v10. 68,000 miles. Mechanic also recommended a thermostat replacement and installed a Gates oem equivalent rated 195 degrees. Truck ran cold, coolant temp barely above the second mark on the dash gauge, probably around 170 degrees. Replaced thermostat with another Gates unit with same result. Turns out both thermostats started to open around 140 degrees according to mechanic. Mechanic is going to try a Stant thermostat next. Hopefully it will be more accurate to the rated 195 degree temp. Anyone have other thermostat recommendations. I read that the Mopar oem was best but of course no longer available.

Thanks kindly.

 

No experience with the v10 but,

I used a Stant superstat (I think it's called). Supposed to be a high flowing one. But, double check it's operation on the stove top first. Heat up some water towards boiling to see when it opens.

 

On the V10 there is a second rubber/metal o-ring seal at the base of the thermostat housing in the intake manifold that the thermostat fits into. Make sure that wasn't distorted when the old t-stat was removed. It will allow coolant to bypass the t-stat that can lead to the symptoms you are describing.

 

What happens if the thermostat is installed upside down?

 

No idea on that. Mechanic ended up installing a Stant thermostat which bench tested at about 180. Truck running fine now albeit a little cooler than when the original oem thermostat was installed.

 

IF the thermostat is installed upside down, the engine overheats horribly.

 

Had a shop do Hughes kit and 180 stat in my truck and ran perfect 180 for a few years. When it died, at a new and better shop, owner came out and said, "uh, it was in there upside down." Weird.

+1 for Stant only.

 

I don't think the V10 stat can be installed upside down due to the housing. Either way, the 180 will help it run cooler in the summer and help to reduce ping. Glad you got it sorted out.

 

I'm kind of jealous for that V10 with only 68k on it. I've driven them before and holy power batman!

 

Yep. Right there with ya. I am keeping my eye out for one in decent shape, for the right money. I'm not in a hurry, so, when one comes along.... I'll be ready.