bitterchaos

iTrader: (6)

After a couple of passes at the track this past friday, my engine has been running a lot hotter than usual. Usually my temp gauge never goes past 210 but lately it's getting close to or even past the 3/4 mark.

I'm planning on flushing the radiator next weekend and swapping the thermostat. Is there a difference between the "performance" thermostats made by hypertech or be-cool and the autozone or oreilly thermostats? I can get a tstat from oreilly for 20 but the hypertech ones cost around 50. If they're all the same I'd rather save my money.

Also, after a few searches on several forums, I cant seem to find a clear answer on whether the 160* or 180* is better for the engine. My car is most stock, only headers and intake. What temp should I get? I live in houston so it gets pretty hot down here, but I might be moving to the north for college next year.

Grimes

iTrader: (3)

I would just get the 180° stat - unless you reprogram the fan temps in the computer, you really won't get the benefit of a lower temp one anyway.

I don't think you have to worry about branding in this case, btw.

FU_I_AM_UltraZ

iTrader: (20)

go with the 160... it made a decent difference with my A4 z28. i just posted a replay to another t-stat post... long story short...
it worked better on my A4 than my M6 z28 and both were 2002s

bitterchaos

iTrader: (6)

Anyone using the Duralast 180 degree ones?

2xLS1

iTrader: (25)

The ones from OReillys are the exact same as the ones in the Hypertech box. Both made by Moto Rad. It's embossed in the housing.

TORCHD 02 TA

iTrader: (39)

could i benfit from a T-stat. i lowered the fan temps by 15*

lsx24

iTrader: (45)

It depends what they are rated at, the 160* stat is good, it will keep engine temps down, but you have to have your fans reprogrammed for this to take effect. 180* is too close to stock to be worth changing.