440 Thermostat question

[383MovingViolation]

What thermostat are you guys using in your 440 engine? I know it's supposed to be 180 degrees but is there any one brand that is better than others? Thanks

 

[GetX'd]

Stant is supposed to be the best on the market.

 

[Dennis H]

Yes, Stant Superstat. 180. Napa Auto.

 

['73bird]

Stant with a small hole drilled

 

[terzmo]

Stant with a small hole drilled

X2

 

[383MovingViolation]

Stant with a small hole drilled

Why the hole ???

 

[Jackpot50]

Why the hole ???

So steam and water can pass thru, so at not to have a steam pocket where state doesn't open

 

[Jackpot50]

1/8" close to inner edge

 

[ChargerM440]

A couple years ago I bought a 180° Mr. Gasket "high performance" thermostat. The POS would never open. I returned it too my local parts store and brought home a second one that opened way too soon. Now, I'll only buy a Stant.

 

[Dennis H]

Yes, Stant Superstat. 180. Napa Auto.

No hole needed ever for mine. Made in USA. The best.

 

[747mopar]

Wish I could remember the brand??? I bought a typical auto parts store thermostat first and that piece of crap stuck damn near every time I drove it. I bought a copper thermostat from Summit and haven't touched it since. Never needed the hole either but I've heard plenty swear by it?

 

[bm02tj]

Some stats come with a small notch in the seat to let air and steam pass
Check your stat in a pan of water for temp opening and closing and the vent hole or notch

 

[Moparsmitty]

It's amazing to me how the parts stores continue to sell crap quality Chinese no name thermostats. It's not like a thermostat is a real complicated or expensive piece of machinery. It also amazes me that people will shop around for the cheapest parts they can find no matter how poor the quality. Spending a few extra bucks for quality parts will always pay off in the long run. I've always had good luck with Stant, but I still check them in a pot of boiling water before I install them just for my own peace of mind.