I am experiencing the infamous 3.0L pinging problem and am considering a 180 degree thermostat, but I dont know at what temperature the computer enters closed loop. I ask because there is a 185 thermostat made for GM products due to closed loop issues.

Things tried so far on 1996 3.0L/5 speed (80,000 miles):

DPFE sensor
Tuneup - Plugs and wires, Fuel and air filter, PCV
Cleaned MAF, throttle body
Chevron Techron injector cleaner
Checked air temp sensor, EGR valve

The DPFE sensor seemed to help a little. My coil pack is not affected by the TSB. Computer was reset afterward by removing battery cable.

Any other suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks.

Edit: Truck runs great on 93 octane. Havent tried 89 since changing the DPFE, still trying 87.

 

from reading various forums etc, 180F is about teh limit of where the comptuer enters closed loop. I'm currently using the 180F t-stat without any negative effects. The temp gauge is on teh low side though..about the lower 1/4 mark.

Regarding the pinging. I would normally say ignition advance, but i don't think we can adjust that with this system. You cuold also look into plugs and get one heat range cooler.

 

Ford can reprogram the PCM to help, they can also retard the timing if needed.

 

cooler sparkplugs and is that 5speed a stick or auto? ive got autolight plugs in my96 and she only pings when shes underload (climbing a curb....iknow its sad) and warm. i can climb the same curb if shes cool and no ping? ware can i get one of them 180 thermostats at?

 

Thanks for the help.

Where can I get some documentation on the PCM reprogram? Is it a TSB? What does it do other than remove some timing?

Its a 5 speed stick. I am using Autolite DP plugs, and my truck does the same thing as yours - runs great on 87 until it fully warms up, then pings under load.

Do you have an manufacturer/part number on a 180 thermostat?

 

I'm not sure what the programing does but would guess it modifies the timing curve. By reducing the timing advance you would lose a little power.

 

I tried the 180 degree thermostat in my 2000 ranger 3.0 V-6 and replaced it with a new stock thermostat a week later. The 180 therm kept the truck in closed loop and i lost about 3 mpg. still searching for a solution to my pinging...i miss the days of hitting the gas and hearing nothing but power(well, 3.0 power at least).