Engine Coolant Thermostat - Operation

THERMOSTAT

The thermostat starts to open at 80°C (176°F). Above this temperature, coolant is allowed to flow to the radiator. This provides quicker engine warm-up and overall temperature control.

The same thermostat is used for winter and summer seasons. An engine should not be operated without a thermostat, except for servicing or testing. Operating without a thermostat causes other problems. These are: longer engine warm-up time, unreliable warm-up performance, increased exhaust emissions and crankcase condensation. This condensation can result in sludge formation.