203 Degree Thermostat

[cblackb]

Hello All, what is the deal with better fuel mileage by running a hotter thermostat? I've heard of people saying they are getting better mileage by running this hotter thermostat...any downfalls to this? Thanks!

[fire370]

http://www.dieselsite.com/index.asp?...ROD&ProdID=186

[mikemikemiker]

A hotter thermostat means a hotter engine, I don't know about better fuel mileage with a hotter engine, however with a cooler engine you will get more power out of it

[NCHornet]

PLACEBO!!!! Can't see how 8 degrees is going to make a Hill o Beans of difference. YMMV!!!

NCH

[superxcrewfx4]

I just changed the upper hose and put in a regular thermostat from napa, I dont see how the 203 degree one can make that much of a difference.

[layson]

I wouldn't run it. Just means your oil temps are going to be higher... run a stock thermostat.

[stanlyonjr]

I have installed a oil xover line and a 203 thermostat and my stock truck runs quieter, smoother and idles 100% better. The powerstroke has a very efficient cooling system. Mine has never overheated or even got close pulling a 12000 lbs 5th wheel. I don't know about other experiences but as for me it works very well. I can hardly tell its a diesel running down the highway. All I hear is the whistle of the turbo. The stock thermo from International is a 203 its a short stem though so its unusable in my 97. If its the factory one for International I figure its OK for my 7.3. Just my opinion.

[STROKE_THIS_F-250]

Originally Posted by stanlyonjr

I have installed a oil xover line and a 203 thermostat and my stock truck runs quieter, smoother and idles 100% better. The powerstroke has a very efficient cooling system. Mine has never overheated or even got close pulling a 12000 lbs 5th wheel. I don't know about other experiences but as for me it works very well. I can hardly tell its a diesel running down the highway. All I hear is the whistle of the turbo. The stock thermo from International is a 203 its a short stem though so its unusable in my 97. If its the factory one for International I figure its OK for my 7.3. Just my opinion.

I agree with you, makes sense to me.

Plust i heard the new thermostats only run at about 175 degrees

[stanlyonjr]

What interesting is my temp gauge on the factory gauge cluster now has the temp needle right square in the middle of the "normal" range. Almost like the gauge was calibrated for the 203 thermostat. I have driven it up long 6 degree grades without any temp problems. Actually driving on flat highway the temp goes down a little. I can't make any comments of fuel economy. I need to run a few tanks before I can comment.

[STROKE_THIS_F-250]

let, me know i have one sitting in the garage, just havent installed it yet