[smtichy]

Hi Babyboomerboy,

I have a 160 degree thermostat in my '55 292 c.i. and after warmed up my aftermarket VDO gauge shows about 160-170 in the spring or fall when not too hot out (below 75F). In the summer when it is 85+ out it is running about 175-185.

I opted to keep a 160 thermostat in, as most my driving is during the hot summer weather, at slower speeds with lots of stop and go for car club events, so the 160 helps keep it cooler (avg. around 180 at slower speeds). If you do a lot of cool weather driving then a higher rated thermostat may be better.