Re: modded thermostat
Pull your T-Stat out completly - then run your car (in the hot summer weather) so it reaches it's normal operating temperature (say 1/2 hour) - if your ECT exceeds 195* (the OEM T-Stat setting) then a 180* T-Stat will offer you nothing - it will just open sooner and prolong the time it takes your engine to reach its normal operating temperature.
If you drive in the dead of a cold winter (other then in the sub tropic regions) and your ECT never rises above 180* (burrrrrr cold outside) - then the 180* T-Stat will do you nothing. (it will never open or would a 195* T-Stat)
But - If you drive in conditions somewhere between the sweet spot of 180*F and 195* then you will gain perhaps a few degrees... maybe 15* max.
What does that buy you??? Does the ECU make your engine run richer at 180* and pulling timing????(according to the service manual it just might) then when running at 195* Only dataloging will provide the cold hearted (ah umm.) facts..