Temperature for C3

jolinari · November 21, 2005, 03:12:06 PM

Hi Guys,
I do not have overheating problems with my 72 vet....however for peace of mind i wanted to change the thermostat, rang the classic chev parts and they informed me that it is available in 3 options, 171,180, and 197....i am really confused, do i need to change it? as i mentioned b4 it does not overheat at all but i thought it would be a move of peace of mind....if i need to change it to which 1 should i?
What do you guys think?

cosmicvette · November 21, 2005, 04:09:13 PM

If it aint broke, don't fix it!

Sorry I can't be of more help, since you don't have an overheating problem, maybe just get one as a spare? that way if your prepared, you won't ever need to change it!

Not sure which one is stock for a 1972....I have a feeling its 180?

77CVT · November 21, 2005, 06:14:09 PM

180

a 170 is no big deal - just means it opens 10deg earlier.

Thunder Kiss · November 21, 2005, 08:59:58 PM

One more vote for 180

TIPPA · November 21, 2005, 09:09:49 PM

I've got a 180deg fitted to my "78 and she keeps her cool. If you wanted to check what your current thermostat temp is, just remove it, throw it in a saucepan full of water and watching with a thermometer heat it on the stove! When it starts opening, thats its temp setting!
Ps. since you are thinking about changing it, it must have been in there for a few years. For 20 bucks you can not only fit a new one but check out the state of your cooling system when you remove it too. Do it and fit a 180degree one and you will have cheap peace of mind!

69VETTE · January 18, 2006, 01:11:15 PM

Hey guys,

Out of curiosity, wouldnt a 160 deg thermostat be more appropriate for our weather?

Given that our cars dont have the biggest front air intakes..?

M;36

Cameron 77C3 · January 31, 2006, 10:51:39 PM

I know I'm late replying to this one.

No matter what stat you have in, if your air flow is low the motor will still heat up. Our air intakes are bigger than you think. Look under the car. That is where a lot of air comes in. That is why the the small scoop under the car is so important at speeds. It directs air up into the radiator, well on a 77 it does.

160 is a bit low for my likeings. I like the 180 too.

jolinari · February 01, 2006, 12:22:36 AM

well makes sense to me Now Cameron...after reading u article;38

Shane Finn · February 01, 2006, 09:12:32 AM

Do you have a shroud around your radiator fan?

My experience with a '78 silver anniversary many years ago was that fixing that had the greatest affect. I fiddled with thermostats, fans and clutches, ... but the shroud fixed all the issues.

jolinari · February 01, 2006, 12:48:38 PM

QuoteOriginally posted by ZEDohSIX
Do you have a shroud around your radiator fan?

My experience with a '78 silver anniversary many years ago was that fixing that had the greatest affect. I fiddled with thermostats, fans and clutches, ... but the shroud fixed all the issues.

i do have one if ur asking me....however i dont have any overheating problems at all...