Trying to figure out what to stick in there... 160* or 180*? Warmer climate here, and many people feel a 160* is too cold and the coolant won't stay in the radiator long enough to cool. I don't want the car to overheat, but am trying to figure out what will be best for performance at the same time. (an oxymoron) A 160* was the hot set up in my LS1 cars, but entirely a different animal than an old school big block.

Factory SCR was a claimed 8.5:1. The big thing is DCR... I measured a stock block, piston, etc. that I have out in the shop... came up with 8.4:1 SCR & 7.365 DCR. I measured my engine in the Chevelle and came up with 9.65:1 SCR & 8.57:1 DCR. I know those will affect detonation and octane requirements.

My tuner was unhappy with my choice to throw a 180* stat in my old 2001 SS. He felt it limited the amount of timing that could e thrown at it, thus limiting power.

All input welcome!

160 is what I have run with no issues.

you could also take apart your old thermostat, so you just have the round disc with the hole in the center. that will slow down the water flow leaving the engine

or you can buy water restrictors, they come in a three pack , 5/8'' I.D. 3/4'' I.D. 1'' I.D.

It will take longer for the engine to heat up, but you will never have a stuck thermostat

Well, I do not have an old one... I started with a rolling chassis and a bare block. I did find the restrictors:

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/mor-63440/overview/

Not sure how well they would suit a car that is regularly street driven. I may just do a 160* stat with a small hole drilled in it. The Chevelle guys I interact with swear by it. I'll give it a shot, if it doesn't pan out - I have other options. Thanks again for the input, I'm sure I'll have plenty more questions as I go. (and shelves full of mistakes)