Re: Engine Thermostats - Old vs. New

Posted by HH56 On 2023/10/10 20:37:19

Depending on year Packard offered thermostats with varied ranges depending on where or when they were to be used. Prewars were not as well documented as postwars but there is mention in some of the service articles.

Postwar thru 54, most of the thermostats are listed in the parts books. Standard was around 160 for most use. If a customer lived in a very cold climate they offered a higher degree of around 180 for winter use so the engine would run at an increased temperature for better heater operation. When using alcohol antifreeze they offered one around the 145-150 range even though the heater would not work as well. They even suggested using a non pressure cap along with the lower temp thermostat if alcohol antifreeze was in the car. Without increased pressure antifreeze would not be able to get as hot and the alcohol would not be as likely to boil off.