I got my fans set at 185 deg. Ive got a single core aluminum rad. with the thermostat in the fans ran none stop all day. Without it runs normal temp and fans kick on only a few times throughout the day. I did gut a thermostat and put the washer back in as a sort of re stricter plate to make sure the fluids not moving to fast.

I always run thermostats.
I can't see the point in taking them out only to put a more restrictive washer in place that doesn't help it warm up and slows the maximum cooling rate down?
Most thermostat housings are designed so the 'stat isn't a restriction to the flow when it's fully open anyway, that's limited elsewhere in the system.
Overcooled oil/engine = as bad for wear as overheated oil/engine.

mines def not over cooler. always runnin around 185

Thanks for the responce.
While the engine is setting on the stand with out the exhaust I think I'll see if I can find a 160 deg stat.
I know the Ecotecs run more efficient at 180 to 205 deg. I just dont want it to run to hot.

Norm

I used a restrictor plate because I could not use the stock housing and had to make one that did not have the room for a thermostat. Oddly enough the restrictor plate is what is recommended by Outfront motorsports out west. Most of these cars are 300 to 500 HP turbo charged Subaru motors run in the desert.

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Water cooled Dry Sumped Subaru Powered Turbo Charged Fuel Injected 2500CC Tank. Oh Rah! He who dies with the most Toys not only wins, He also wears them out!

Then you'd expect them to save some weight and just use a smaller radiator!