Reply to "Thermostat By-pass Plate"

Before you get too far in this, first is the engine overheating? The bypass plate is only needed if the engine is using a stock cast iron waterpump with a bypass channel built in, and many aftermarket pumps do not have this passage (such as the popular aluminum Weiand pump). Second, the "plate" is built like a freeze plug; it is slightly oversize for the hole, then is driven in and therefore distorts slightly. The diameter mismatch keeps it in place. With some care, a large std freeze plug can be modified with a 5/8" center hole to work with a 351C-specific thermostat, assuming you really need it. But wrecking yards are full of junk 351-C 2-V blocks with cracked cylinders, thrown rods etc. If I needed this plate, I believe i'd look there (with a big screwdriver to pop a used one out). Cost should be a smile & a handshake....Finally, some of the usual Pantera parts vendors stock a sort-of-replacement for this plate, or have scrapped engines around. Call around & inquire.