I live in South Florida. Do I use a 195 or 180 in my 2001 Dodge Ram 1500 Van 150,000 miles v8 with Y vin, ?

 

Stick with the 195. The lower temp thermostat tends to confuse the PCM, and compromises the already atrocious fuel mileage.

Welcome to DF!

 

And try to find a 195 degree Stant Superstat - its a well-made thermostat that lasts!

 

do your self a favor and simmer check in a pot a of water along with adding a 1/8 in. bypass hole

 

^ X2

Indeed!

 

I've run a 180 since 2005 all in the northern states with one stint down south. Really helped when below the Mason-Dixon. But up north we get 100s too. My truck has pinged since new so it was one of the "cures." Now I prefer it as I can tell when it goes to 185, the engine loses power. Wish they made a 175. Only trucks to suffer from CELs with colder stats were 2000-1. In the winter I add a winter front and she does just fine. Also, if you ever want to tune it, you'll need a 180.