Performance Thermostats

Any liquid cooled engine requires a means of controlling the rate of flow through the cooling system, for optimum temperature control. The thermostat restricts coolant flow to the radiator until the engine reaches operating temperature, and then regulates flow to maintain that temperature. But high compression and forced induction performance and racing engines that are revved to maximum RPM generate much more heat than ordinary engines, creating demands that a standard thermostat can’t handle.

The coolant flow rate through a high performance engine is critical to optimal heat transfer. Coolant that flows too slowly stays in the engine too long, increasing engine temperature. The coolant may even boil away in some areas, creating hot spots that can cause serious damage. A standard thermostat may not allow sufficient flow for optimal heat dissipation in the radiator, and most standard thermostats can’t function properly at high RPM when the engine has been modified with a high flow water pump.

Performance thermostats are structured to provide increased coolant flow when open compared to standard thermostats. Many are of the balanced design, which equalize the water pressure on both sides of the thermostat to prevent being forced close from increased coolant flow, a condition that can occur with a standard thermostat when the engine is abruptly revved. Performance thermostats are also much more accurate than standard thermostats, and usually open within a few degrees of their rated temperature. Their sensing elements are also typically more sensitive than standard thermostats, enabling them to respond faster to coolant temperature change.

The flow characteristics, accuracy and prompt opening of a performance thermostat will allow your engine to deliver the power it’s capable of and last longer. Engines operate most efficiently and undergo the least wear when engine temperature is maintained within a relatively narrow range. This is especially true of computer controlled electronic fuel injected engines. Enabling the engine to quickly get to that range and stay within its limits results in optimal fuel atomization and the proper air/fuel mixture for thorough combustion and maximum power, along with minimal cylinder wear and oil usage. Our performance thermostat will meet the needs of your high horsepower, high RPM engine.

We offer performance thermostats for most engines in a range of opening temperatures, most commonly 160ºF, 180ºF, and 195ºF. We also have a selection of plated water outlets/necks for many of the same applications, so you can add style to your engine bay while you’re upgrading your cooling system. Although thermostats are highly recommended for street and street/strip cars, we know that many racers prefer water outlet restrictors, so we offer kits that include plates with various diameter holes to dial in the coolant flow. And in addition to the above, here you’ll also find fluid control thermostats for oil coolers, and remote and in-line cooling fan control thermostats.