what are the advantages and disadvantages of putting in a 180 or 160 degree thermostat in my pickup. 2001 f150 5.4 . thanks.

chech77

 

Advantages: none?
Disadvantages: you will never get to closed loop on your computer. This effects the gas mileage. Your truck never gets to a correct operating temp. The stock termostats are 190 (or is it 195?)deg. If you are a mostly stock f150 the replacement tstat will do more harm than good.

 

I'm not a guru in this department, but here's what I do know:

The stock thermostat is 192ºF. Moving to a cooler thermostat would make your coolant flow at a lower temperature and would, ideally, make the engine run a little cooler. But there are drawbacks, like rocketir mentioned. If your truck isn't highly modified, or you have no other reason to do so, I wouldn't go below a 180ºF thermostat without consulting a mechanic. The 180ºF is probably good.

 

thanks for your replies. i currently have an airaid intake, jba headers, and single in dual out exhaust. i'll probably add a superchip, underdrive pullies, and maybe some electric fans. i was just wondering about that thermostat cause i read it in a magazine. if you have anymore info let me know and thanks again.

chech77 2001 5.4 f150