All Small Six 170 thermostat temp?

[Dunk]

Probably a can of worms but better than an oil thread I suppose for the start of winter. What temp thermostat should I run in a 170? Manual for '64 lists low temp and high temp (presumably 180* or 195*). I'd think 195* should be better for reduced engine wear and increased economy, as well as more heat for those top down winter days. 180* maybe for a tick more performance if jetted appropriately for a more dense charge through the tiny restrictive log.

Reason I ask is I have the heater box out of a '64 Falcon for a rebuild, replace a seized blower motor, as well as change the failed coolant temp sensor. Coolant was dirty when draining, flushed out a lot of crud and checked temp with IR gauge while flushing with some cycles to temp but it never got to temp idling. 140*-150* at thermostat housing and along driver side of head back to coolant temp sensor. Gauge works with new sensor, highest I saw was barely touching the low end of normal range. Figuring it's a stuck open thermostat or PO removed it. Considering whether to get a 180* or 195* thermostat. Thoughts?

 

[B RON CO]

Hi, I have run the 180* for a long time. If a guy wants to run a 195* go for it. I like the Motorcraft thermostats. They are better than most on the market. I get mine at Napa. If you want to try a very good cooling system flush check out the Mercedes citric acid flush. Good luck

 

[sixtseventwo4d]

I would start with something mid-range, say 180. Go from there depending on your climate. Robert Shaw thermostats are really close in tolerance range if you feel like spending the money; easily 25 or so dollars. Stant is reliable. try to get something heavy-duty. Motorcraft if there is even one to be had would be good also.
There were some thermostats that were rated high temp which could be 205.

 

[PSIG]

What temp thermostat should I run in a 170? Manual for '64 lists low temp and high temp (presumably 180* or 195*).

The factory thermostat options were 160° and 190°, per the FSM. I run 160° in most engines except emissions cars, and the engines love it but winters here are mild, only down to around 20° at times. Only reason to run a hotter T-stat would be for the heater, so 180° or 190° if you have bitter cold and need to clear your windshield quicker or warm your muffins. I always buy quality 'stats, and high-flow rated.

 

[Dunk]

Remembered this thread so figured I'd update. I went with a 195* thermostat and it's great, heat was super toasty with the top down over the winter between that and the rebuilt heater box.

Hot starting is finicky with a Holley 1940. It wants throttle cracked a hair to start hot but accelerator pump shot seems a bit much. jetting may be a tad rich too, unsure. Apparently Holley 1940 are known for less than stellar hot start performance. I considered a six build but between cost and lack of parts availability such as the aluminum head the car will get a roller 302... With a 195* thermostat.

 

[PSIG]

The Ford instructions for starting cold, and hot, are around here somewhere. Cold is one deliberate press to full throttle and release, setting the choke (if automatic choke), then crank with foot off the pedal. Hot start is ±1/3 pedal and hold it while cranking until it starts. No 'pumping' with either. If it's not in proper adjustment, the Ford instructions won't work.