disallow wrote:
>
> Alright, so i went in and changed the thermostat to a 180F, even though
> the OEM replacement is 192, since i figure the cooling system can use all
> the help it can get.
>
> First off, good idea?

Probably not. If your engine is getting too hot, you either have
improper temperature regulation (bad thermostat, failed thermo switches
etc.) or you have insufficient cooling capacity (clogged radiator,
blocked hoses, too many insects blocking airflow through radiator etc.).

If the problem is insufficient cooling capacity, a lower temp thermostat
isn't going to help. If the system can't maintain 192°F it certainly
won't maintain 180°F.

If the problem is improper temperature regulation, the thermostat
certainly is a likely failure point, so replacing it is a good, cheap,
idea. There really is no point in not using the specified temperature.

If the engine is running too cool, you can get into issues where the ECU
never gets out of the cold enrichment mode etc.