Hello Good People,

Over the years I've had thermostats fail to function correctly which has caused some stress to say the least. Several have mentioned getting a quality thermostat, while others mentioned running their Rover without one. I get the pros and cons in terms of fuel efficiency, proper cooling etc.

Has anyone has any experience with Water Restrictors on their non-track vehicle?

I had a heating / flow issue and recently replaced my radiator and water pump. All fans are working correctly. While everything is unbuttoned I thought this could be a learning moment to gauge a better understanding of why some old timers prefer them over a stock thermostat.

Now that I have a pack of Water Restrictors 5/8", 3/4", and 1".

I want to test them on my rig which is:

96 D1
5speed

Temps range in the 178 and 187 range when using a 180 thermostat. This is doing street driving and not pulling a load.

Again I know the importance of replacing the thermostat but what if it fails and your away from your garage? Currently I am located in a place where freezing is not a concern.

Any constructive insight in appreciated because Water Restrictors sizes does matter.[img alt=":LOL:"]data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7[/img]

Thanks

 

I also have a 96 D1 and my thermostat has been stuck open for months. I run about 154 with on road driving and trail riding, especially climbing my rig will get into the hi 190s. Takes a while to warm up in the cold. Fuel mileage is about 11mpg with lift, 33s on stock gears. I have also removed all my AC components.

 

154 is a very low temp. Have you had issues with spark plug fouling?

 

Nope, ;but I have a stage 2 cam and lifters in it so that may make a difference.

 

Stage 2 cam with lifters...nice!

 

I've never heard of using a water restrictor. I would think that you wouldn't want your cooling flow restricted. Also, perhaps if you live in a very hot climate you might be okay without a t-stat, but running an engine too cool isn't great for it. I would run a good quality t-stat. I'm 66 and in all my years I've only had one Stat fail.

 

Thanks Harvlr.
You don't look a day over 50!

 

I'll definitely take that as a compliment even though I don't think you've ever seen me!

 

Hey Harvlr,

Always a compliment. I have read and appreciated many of your postings throughout the years.
As for the Water Restrictors, this was a new concept and needed some help understanding the Pros and Cons. Now I have a better understanding of using restrictors on a track car vs a daily driver. In the end a reliable thermostat will better serve the Rover and my driving style.

Thanks

P.S.
The OEM thermostat gaskets are a thing of beauty, wish I could reuse it over and over for the price.

 

You have the right thought process to keep the engine from overheating. However, Do a google search for engine wear vs temp charts. It's very well known that running an engine under 160* will wear significantly. I remember reading in a Ford manual that was written back in 1962. They had a chart which indicated coolant temp vs engine wear. It was like a hocky-stick shape after 160. The chart and info was based on many engineering tests at Ford even back THEN. Engine parts expand with temperature and are designed to run best and longest at a certain optimal (designed) temp. So that's what you should shoot for.

Avoid aftermarket thermostats if you can as they can be spotty quality.