Re: Engine Thermostats - Old vs. New

Posted by TxGoat On 2023/10/5 20:34:51

Removing the thermostat defeats important design factors of the cooling system. Besides regulating engine temperature, the thermostat provides a calibrated restriction to coolant flow, even when open. This causes some over-pressure in the block and head, especially at higher RPM, which prevents steam pockets and improves heat transfer. It also prevents excessively low pressure on the suction side of the pump at higher RPM, which can lead to air leaks at the pump seal and even cause cavitation/bubbles in the lower radiator hose and within the pump itself at operating temperature.The calibrated restriction also prevents forcing water out the radiator overflow on non-pressurized systems. The thermostat needs to be in place, and it needs to have the same flow characteristics as the original one when fully open. Removing the thermostat will not correct a clogged radiator or malfunctioning water tube.