FE Power Forums

FE Power Forums => FE Technical Forum => Topic started by: bobb428 on October 25, 2017, 10:23:50 PM

Title: Thermostats
Post by: bobb428 on October 25, 2017, 10:23:50 PM

Jay, what kind of thermostat do you run in your Drag Week FE's? I have the Dove adjustable housing and I am thinking its not the best for my aluminum 526" FE.

Title: Re: Thermostats
Post by: jayb on October 26, 2017, 07:59:26 AM

I run one of those Mr. Gasket high-flow 160 degree thermostats.  I also punch 3 or 4 1/8" holes in the periphery to act as a bypass, since I'm running an electric water pump.  The engine cools very well with that setup.

Title: Re: Thermostats
Post by: bobb428 on October 26, 2017, 05:18:00 PM

Thanks

Title: Re: Thermostats
Post by: CaptCobrajet on October 28, 2017, 10:47:24 AM

If you run a mechanical pump and it is rpm-friendly, do not use a thermostat.  With electric pumps, Jay's method is good with a constant flow rate.  With a mechanical pump, a thermostat with those holes drilled will open and close sporadically, due to the extra flow holes.  A quick trip from idle to 7000 rpm when the thermostat happens to be closed will put extreme pressure in the cooling system......enough to blow all of the knock-in plugs out.  Seen this more than one time.  Screw-ins  won't blow, but it sure is a strain on all of the seal areas.  The proper Moroso restrictor ring is a good method with a mechanical pump.