[SpudRider]

Originally Posted by pyoungbl

Well, I was thinking that if the bypass were close to the thermostat (and sensors) it would be a moot point or maybe actually get the true engine temp to the sensor sooner. As it is, the temp sensor works off the coolant that is trapped in the thermostat housing. Except for the small bleed hole on the thermostat, the housing is a dead end for coolant flow until the thermostat opens. The temp sensor actually lags behind the actual temp during warm-up. If I had that housing I'd want to see if I could drill and tap for a bypass spigot. At the same time I'd like to see if a different thermostat would fit (what Spud mentioned).

Originally Posted by katflap

Great idea , a spigot directly into the thermostat housing , I think your right, that would do the trick, brilliant

Think I might have to purchase a spare thermostat housing to play with

This system would work well, but it depends on two variables.

1. The stock thermostat housing needs to be able to accommodate a fitting for the bypass hose.

2. The short hose with the tight bend, which connects the radiator to the inlet of the water pump, also needs to be able to accommodate a fitting for the bypass hose.

Ideally, we should also find a thermostat with a higher operating temperature (195 degree Fahrenheit), which fits inside the stock thermostat housing. However, the bypass itself would still be an improvement, even with the stock thermostat.