[Rev]

The thermostat really only determines the minimum temperture that the car will run at. Like on a cold day the stat will keep the temp up to it's rating (e.g. 180) because it will begin closing at less than the rated temp cutting down radiator flow. On a really hot day or with hard usage, it's the cooling system capacity that determines where the temp stays.

For all around good drivability, I think a 180 is about right. My car will see 195-200 on those hot Houston 100+ degree summer days though. And that's with my 6 blade flex fan, auxillary electric pusher fan, 4 row radiator, and Shelby front valance.

Rev