(Richard Triplett) wrote:
>
> I didn't realize what a firestorm I was creating by suggesting the
> thermostat should not be removed in order to solve overheating problems.
> When I stated that water could flow too fast for proper heat transfer, I
> was using data gathered from a hydraulics course I had recently completed.
> In that course the instructor stated that flow rate through a heat
> exchanger should be reduced in order for proper heat transfer to take place,
> but he was referring to a system where a reservoir was used for excess oil
> storage. In actual practice, in a closed loop circuit such as an engine
> cooling system, flow could probably not exceed maximum efficiency, making
> my statement a moot point. I still stand by my statement that removing a
> good thermostat in order to try to fix an overheating problem is a bad idea,
> because, sure, it may appear to run cooler, but if there are fundamental
> problems with the cooling system, it will still overheat when stressed, ie,
> on long idle & hot days, etc. Then you have the problem of cold days when
> the engine does not reach optimum operating temperature, the heater doesn't
> work, and fuel efficiency is reduced. You're not doing your engine any
> favors by running it below its most efficient temperature. May I leave the
> corner now?
>
> Richard Triplett
> 62 TR3A
> 78 Spitfire
> 85 XJ6
Richard, I agree completely.I definitely showed lower temp readings last
summer with the thermostat out, and it was functioning correctly as
ascertained with a pan of water and a thermometer.Once the T/stat is out
on a TR8, then the temperature is held relatively constant by the
thermocouple operarting the electric fans, which is around 160F.Come
winter and I froze on a 35F day because the heater never got up to
temperature. I still believe the main function is to enable the motor to
heat up quicker and maintain a constant temperature than improve
cooling. After all, in many cases the same T/Stat can be used in a 2
liter or 5 liter engine.Wouldn't you expect a bigger engine to need a
bigger T/Stat if its affecting cooling rate rather than coolant
temperature.
Stu
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