Is a thermostat needed?

[Philster]

Re: Is a thermostat needed?

Depends on how you define "better". It'll make a little more power until it starts detonating, then it'll weld itself into a lump (would make a good anchor) a few seconds later!

You could probably count on it running reliably for about as long as a typical Top Fuel dragster motor - about 4 seconds at a time between total rebuilds:

I figured I'd get 6 seconds out of 'er.

I hope the OP listens. I know a number of people who don't run thermostats. Like talking to the wall.

 

[mariner1900]

Re: Is a thermostat needed?

If you run your engine too cold you will actually be causing increased wear as well as poor performance.

The engine needs to be at operating temp, where all components have fully expanded, to reach the "running clearances"

Years ago we operate marine diesels at 75C and overhaul cylinders every 7,000hrs. We now operate the same engines at 85 to 90C and do overhauls at 12 to 16,000hrs based on condition monitoring. This increase in running hours is due to more efficient and cleaner combustion as well as better running clearances due to the higher engine temp.

 

[full stringer]

Re: Is a thermostat needed?

the thermostat also helps keep even flow of water pressure through the exhaust manifolds and risers.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Is a thermostat needed?

Years ago we operate marine diesels at 75C and overhaul cylinders every 7,000hrs. We now operate the same engines at 85 to 90C and do overhauls at 12 to 16,000hrs based on condition monitoring. This increase in running hours is due to more efficient and cleaner combustion as well as better running clearances due to the higher engine temp.

Ayuh,.... IF we had the technology in metallurgy, 'n ceramics,...

Running at several hundred degrees could put an internal combustion engine back into the runnin' for Future energy needs....

 

[mariner1900]

Re: Is a thermostat needed?

Hi Bondo, yes ceramics in an engine would be a remarkable leap forward for IC engines. There has been a lot of R&D by some of the major manufacturers but no significant progress has been made as yet but there has been significant improves in the metallurgy side mainly in the composition of rings and liners. The new materials give a longer service with the engines operating at higher temps and efficiency. Mind you as we are operating at higher temps monitoring is critical as there is not much leeway before you cook an engine.

My point in the post is that if the manufacturer states an operating temp then stick to it. better efficiency, less wear.

Take a look at the mileage that a typical taxi achieves before an engine replacement compared to the normal family car. A taxi will generally clock 500K in aussie before the engine is replaced. This is purely based on the fact the engine is always at operating temp, thermostat in, and everything has expanded to running clearances. Typical family car is always going through cold/hot cycles which increase wear and your lucky to get 200K before the rattles settle in.

So thermostat or no thermostat? It's a no brainer if you want to maximise your engine life.

 

[DennisM]

Re: Is a thermostat needed?

I may be new here, but I had to post in regards to the thermostat issue.

You need it in there along with the housing for it for one simple reason, to collect the shreds of impeller when you toast it!

Sorry, had to say it. New guy back to just reading a lot now...

 

[daydreamer1252]

Re: Is a thermostat needed?

DennisM

Funny that...glad I didn't have a mouth full of coffee....

You may have a future in observational comedy....keep reading....will be looking for more from you...

To keep on topic....yes the thermostat is a necessary part....