Performed my own Mr. Gasket Thermostat test

[72 SS PNL]

its a good idea with a thermostat to drill a 1/8" hole or 2 to help circulate the coolant and keep air bubbles down

also run a restrictor if you are not going to use a thermostat

[joe350gt]

All,

I went around and around with stats until I've finally said never again and put a restrictor in it. No more crazy spiking temp gauge!! And my stats would open in a pan of hot water too. I have an aluminum Edelbrock high flow water pump and I think the pressure from the pump is/was partially responsible for the stat staying shut when it should have been opening. It is way better than spiking from normal up to 240/250, then opening and dropping way down to 160ish. That can't be good for the old hot rod!!

Joe