Lower Thermostat

[Drewe30e]

I'm in the middle of timing belt/tune up and before refilling my coolant system, I thought I would replace my thermostat. However, the one sent to me is 71C instead of the OE 80C. Is this going to cause any significant problems with how the car runs?

I understand that this will just open sooner and possibly limit my heating abilities, but has anyone noticed that it severely reduced heater output or affected the way the car performed?

One a side note, the thermostat I just removed says its a 75C on it. So, I guess its been replaced before and I haven't noticed too much of a problem.

[lordofthewaters]

Got one in the 89 now. Heater worked fine in the cold last year, and the gauge actually said the car was running cooler. Win win for my particular situation.

[oldcarskickass]

I'm in the middle of timing belt/tune up and before refilling my coolant system, I thought I would replace my thermostat. However, the one sent to me is 71C instead of the OE 80C. Is this going to cause any significant problems with how the car runs?

I understand that this will just open sooner and possibly limit my heating abilities, but has anyone noticed that it severely reduced heater output or affected the way the car performed?

One a side note, the thermostat I just removed says its a 75C on it. So, I guess its been replaced before and I haven't noticed too much of a problem.

Using 71 degree for over a year now, the only thing is the temperature gauge is never in the middle, but i havent noticed any problems since installing it.

Engine is M20B20 and im using an E36 radiator.

[houstonh]

I can't validate this, but I know sometime the engine will run rich until the ECU sees full operating temp. Although I imagine that the motronic unit would consider anything above 150 or so full temp. Just a thought. Also a warm engine will run faster most of the time. Of course there is limits to everything and if you are tracking your car all the time you might be better off with that lower T-stat sensor.