Reply to "Running with no thermostat"

(1) The original thermostat was not rated at 180 degrees, it was rated at 192 degrees. I was working on these engines back then.

(2) There is a large "Classic Mustang" parts business which basically purchased the entire inventory of the final batch of Robertshaw (Flow Kooler) 351C thermostats. Those thermostats are sitting on the shelves of that Mustang parts business collecting dust. I was told the name of that business, but my memory makes it impossible for me to remember. There are only a few major Classic Mustang parts businesses. It should be easy to figure out which business it is.

(3) Flow Kooler makes a good 351C coolant pump for Pantera owners, because it improves low rpm coolant flow. But in terms of the thermostat, they have let ALL owners of 351C powered vehicles down. ASSHOLES.

(3) The cooling system built into the 351C is not a problem. Mustang & Torino guys don't go through the same drama that Pantera guys go through; with the proper thermostat Mustang & Torino cooling systems perform great! The cooling system built into the 351C was, in fact, advanced for its time. Kinda like the 351C cylinder heads. All cars today are equipped with functionally similar thermostat designs.

(4) The Pantera's cooling system ailments are entrapped air & insufficient coolant flow at low rpm.

(5) Marlin and Scott (SACC Restorations) are among my short list of personal heroes. If you own a 351C powered vehicle (Marlin's thermostat applies), or Pantera (Scott's water pump pulley applies), its in your interest to support those folks. Believe me, there's no profit in this niche market, these guys do it as a labor of love. They both produce these cooling system parts because I talked them into it.

Ray, operating the 351C with no thermostat is a bad idea. At the least replace the brass orifice below the thermostat with a freeze plug thus preventing any coolant from bypassing the radiator. The engine will warm-up very slowly. I hope you'll install the proper thermostat instead.


Debbie & I love all you guys ... no bull, from our hearts.