What will it do

[TomPob]

Just had a new rad fitted, and the thermostat is shot. At the moment it is fully open all the time. The engine is still running up to hot and needing the fans. But what damage would running the engine with the thermostat fully open all the time do. Should I just take longer warming it up. I'll be getting a new one, but need to use the car next week without it. Any advice?

[yzf1070]

In terms of engine caretaking during the warm up period its the Oil Temp you need to take more notice of.....Long term there is likly to be little effect other than it will take longer to warm up inside the car, especially during winter months. And you may notice a slight increase in fuel consumption during the warm period.....still best to get it sorted soonest tho.

[TomPob]

Used the car last week with the stat fully open. On the motorway I was running at about 65 degrees. Is that too low?

Tom

[kipper_]

Hi Tom,

The water temp isnt really that important as long as your oil temp is OK (I dont start thrashing her till above 60deg oil temp).

[nelly1]

I'd get it done before the winter proper gets here

Otherwise you'll not have a heater to speak of and you'll be running on the (thirstier!!) engine map all the time