Optimum engine temperature for the best fuel atomization and hp???

[printmanjackson]

I see lots of guys using 160* thermostat with engine temps running around 180*. I changed to an 180* thermostat with engine temps running around 195* now and I have no dyno to back it up but it seems to run better. Has anyone done any testing to back up and proven running these cooler engine temps?

[flame]

Every LS aluminum block motor I've seen on a dyno always has more hp on the second pull when the coolant temp is 200-205

[denmah]

Every LS aluminum block motor I've seen on a dyno always has more hp on the second pull when the coolant temp is 200-205

totally true, they like 200-215 for sure

[printmanjackson]

Why do I see all these guys selling "mail order tunes" telling everyone to run such a cold engine?

[denmah]

not sure, i even run my turbo cars with the stock thermostat.

[DSteck]

210 is the sweet spot from what I can tell.

[10_SS]

Whipple includes the 160 thermostat with their kit on the LS3, but coolant is about 180F like everyone else. Do you'all think 200-210 is also better for top mount superchargers? I would check on the dyno, but the owner doesn't really want me changing it. Thinking 20F more degrees will add ~10-15F more during heat soak.

[jimmyblue]

I think you want as much temperature, as won't diesel under
any condition. Then you fit your timing to it. But for simplicity
you may as well stick with the stock range and concentrate
more on the real limitations to heat throw, which is where
your top end of the observed temp range, comes from. The
thermostat is only responsible for holding up the bottom.

[Iam Broke]

Whipple includes the 160 thermostat with their kit on the LS3, but coolant is about 180F like everyone else. Do you'all think 200-210 is also better for top mount superchargers? I would check on the dyno, but the owner doesn't really want me changing it. Thinking 20F more degrees will add ~10-15F more during heat soak.

LS3, SLP new style TVS2300, 9 psi, stock tstat, 196* coolant, 105 - 112* IAT's in 90* ambient. 120*f in a hard pull. 16* advance at 6400 rpm, no KR, but I'm on E85.

I know it's apples to oranges, but maybe you can compare.

[printmanjackson]

nuff said