Ok. So I bought 2 thermo'* from Intense 1 a 180 and 1 a 160, I'll be using the 180 first only until I do a few more mods. But I am a little concerned as to what mod'* I will need to make in order to use the 160. What do you think?

I know you need a booku amount of mods to correctly run the 160. Make sure to drill a little hole in the 180 if you put it in soon.

I don't think you'll have any problems running the 160, but you might throw a code unless you get the PCM reprogrammed first.

Just remember that if you get stuck in traffic, your temps will still go to over 200* no matter what t-stat you throw in," thats when your fans kick on"
You also need to get a reprogramed PCM to have your fans come on sooner so that will keep your temps down.

You know I have never had my temp over 200. I've read a lot of posts that people say they have. And this last week we have had 95 to 105 degree weather and I'm still running 200 only. And no my gauge is not bad.

on my 2000, i dont remember ever seeing my temp over the 200 mark... it usually sits right at or just a little below with the 180.. about the same as before i changed it.

Perhapse its because your car is brand spanking new. And mine is old... as has some radiator fluid around the intake mandifold.... and it makes noises.. and smells funny... and has dents.... damn you new supercharged chick magnets, bragging about your stupied coolness. (Get it double meaning there but I was talking abou the temp more than the cool factor) You know why your guage is not bad... because it'* new... and cool... Im going to go read the bible.

VIVA LA 97 SE!

Your fans are starting at around 195 so your temp " if every thing is working right " will get to 200* how ever no matter what T-stat you put in your temp will still go to 200* if your not moving forward untill you get your fans to turn on sooner.

You can use an E-Stat from zzp to turn the fans on sooner. The gauge will read 200 but will actually be 180 or 160 depending on your stat of choice.
I would think with your mods the 180 would be fine.