Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

Has anyone replaced their thermostat with one that opens at a higher temperature, such as 180°F? It's supposed to be better for wear and prevent deposits due to the better quality of today's oils. Is there a suitable one for the 1936 Onetwenty?

It would do the engine no harm, assuming it and the cooling system are in good condition. I'm not sure whether a really suitable thermostat is available today. The thermostat would need to have the same wide open flow rate as the original type. Engines run best with the coolant temperature around 180 to 195 F. If you do run a later type thermostat, use a 50/50 mix of "green" anti-freeze. The antifreeze will have additives to prevent corrosion, foaming, and other problems and it will raise the coolant's boiling point a few degrees.