anyone know if there'* a difference between the ZZ Perfromance/Intense Racing/ thermostat and the standard parts store (Pep Boys/Autozone) 180 stat other than the fact that they are 3 times the price??

drilled holes for extra cooling effect.

If its the right thermostat for the car, buy the cheapest one you can find. Then, if you like, drill some holes in it for better cooling when the t-stat isn't open.

Shawn

right on! - thanks guys!

While functionaly they will be all the same, reliability comes to mind when purchasing very cheap t-stats. The ones ZZP and INTENSE sell are a higher quality. I have found the cheap ones from autozone or pep boys tend to stick and go bad way before the others.

:?: Hey, why don't all of you people who are so obsessed with your thermostats, just use the "Robert Shaw" (-or equivalent) "high performance (ie. high flow) type ???? :?: -and forget all of your "hole drilling magic."

I'll even do some research for you. (I think I'll start with Stewart Industries,,, might give them a phone call in the morning) ,,,,and Mr. Jacks at Concept One Pulleys,,, hmmm,,,

I'm using the Robert Shaw design on a 400hp small block 400cid, and it flows P L E N T Y of gallons per minute.

The idea of a drilled thermostat is not to flow more, but to flow a little even when the Tstat is closed.

Rogue, you are EXACTLY RIGHT -in fact one little 1/16" hole is all that is necessary to do the job. (-which is to eliminate air bubble accumulation on the "back side" of the 'stat, and to make the 'stat operate a little smoother. -especially on the initial opening.)

Some stats will "cycle" rather severely, especially on the initial opening, on applications that need to have the air bubbles bled off.

The little "bleed hole" is even a good idea on the high flow stat too.

I bought the ZZP one because I knew it was of higher quality. I know it'* only a t-stat, but it is vital to keep my engine operating properly. The two holes drilled make a world of difference.

Okay, and that "world of difference" is ???????