Stupid person=Stupid Question

[Tahoe202]

Ok here goes... So I ordered a new thermostat for my volvo penta 5.7 GS as my last one looked like garbage upon inspection(in the middle of a long spray paint overhaul and cleanup) and was probably the original from 1997. The last thermostat was frozen in an open position and I never had a problem with the motor. It ran fine like that. Now before you start yelling at me about it, I fully intend on installing this thermostat in the motor because I believe there is a reason. My question is why? What is the reason for the Tstat if we are using this motor in the heat of summer only and it would be intended to keep that block cool. I don't think the difference of the thermostat opening would regulate that much temperature in august in oklahoma and if it does aren't we only talking about a few degrees? Does a thermostat really keep a block at 140 +- degrees constantly? I know stupid question but I know there is someone here who can educate me.

Very Respectfully,

MM

 

[Don S]

Re: Stupid person=Stupid Question

The thermostat slows the water down so it has time to absorb heat away from the engine. When the water goes by too fast, it doesn't cool the engine, but the water stays cool and looks good on the gauge. While the engine may actually be overheating, especially on the back of the engine that doesn't see enough water flow without the thermostat.
This varies from engine to engine depending on corrosion and restriction to flow, but you get the idea.
Some engines and conditions, the engine will actually run too cold, which is not good for the engine.
Get a temp gun and look at the different temps all over your engine, both with and without the stat and you will see the differences.

 

[Tahoe202]

Re: Stupid person=Stupid Question

Makes perfect sense Don. I never looked at the thermostat as a flow restrictor or it allowing pressure but now I do. Thanks.