203 Degree Thermostat
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Joined: May 2007
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203 Degree Thermostat
I just got my 203 degree thermostat from Diesel site. I put it in so we will see what happens. I have read and have had people tell me that the optimal operating temp for the 7.3 is 200 degrees. With that said the motor should operate more efficiently, or so they say. I figure if i get any even .5 mile more per gallon it is worth the 36 bucks it cost. What do you guys think?
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Joined: Nov 2006
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From: North of Greenville
I doubt if you're going to be able to measure a mpg gain. I haven't, yet, but I've also only been running it for about 3 weeks.
What I HAVE noticed is that the needle on the stock temp gauge is running about the width of the needle higher in temp.
What I HAVE noticed is that the needle on the stock temp gauge is running about the width of the needle higher in temp.
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Joined: Jun 2006
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From: Fulltime RVer
Also consider that even though a 203 F stat theoretically increases the thermodynamic efficiency and might be an acceptable choice for a stock engine it's probably not a good choice for a higher HP engine that's operated under heavy sustained loads because the OEM cooling system is only barely adequate to handle the heat rejection from a stock engine under such conditions.
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Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 11,286
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From: North of Greenville
Point taken, Gene. Thanks.
Since I neither tow nor have significant Hp improvements in my engine, I'll be satsified with the theoretical increase in efficiency for now. If, on the other hand, I end up modding up to noticeable Hp gains, I'll remember to change out the stat again for the reason you've stated.
Since I neither tow nor have significant Hp improvements in my engine, I'll be satsified with the theoretical increase in efficiency for now. If, on the other hand, I end up modding up to noticeable Hp gains, I'll remember to change out the stat again for the reason you've stated.
Hotshot
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 12,177
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From: Newport, WA
I'll not be spending the cash for a 203 stat. I've done lots of reading... seems the "benefits" of the 203 aren't there for most guys. Joey @ TE also advises against running one for guys that have big oil to help keep oil temps down.
Hotshot
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 11,286
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From: North of Greenville
Good choice, Chase. Like I said, if I were modding up to "respectable" levels of power, I would ditch the 203° stat for the original. However, I just can't afford taking off down that road -- unless I casually stroll up to that point after having the truck and working on it little-by-little for the next 10 years.
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Joined: Sep 2006
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From: Montana
Mine helps me run a little hotter for winter months while burning VO. but in the summer time the only draw back is my fan runs more often, but not a big deal to me.
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Joined: Feb 2008
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From: Lancaster, Pa.
I just noticed last week that my stock stamped housing was weeping at the mating surface so I got the 203 and the billet housing, should have done the change out when I did the coolant flush. I figured i'd upgrade while i'm in there..
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