what is the min/max temp range for the thermostat on a 3.8 v6?
Asked by migration_CYBERDALE Jul 19, 2012 at 10:40 AM about the 2003 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS FWD
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
2003 MONTE SS eng code K. Eng seems to be running hotter that I was use to in my 2001 (same ENG).
BOOK CALLS FOR 195 THERMOSTAT I am considering a drop down to 185. Will this effect the ECM? CAR
IS ALMOST 10 YEARS OLD WITH THE ORIGINAL STAT INST.
6 Answers
migration_CYBERDALE answered 11 years ago
YES THE GAUGE IS READING UP TO THE 3/4 HASH MARK ON VERY HOT (100)DAYS, A/C RUNNING AND 70MPH DOWN INTERSTATE. I HAD MY 2001 IN FLORIDA AND DON'T RECALL THE GAUGE READING THIS HIGH EVER.
I'm pretty sure your low on coolant, check and fill your radiator and reserve tank. If you want better cooling i'd go with the 180* stat. That's what I'm going to have put in mine when I have a chance after my modded heater tube comes. No it won't throw an CEL light.
normal operating range is 195-205 typically. the desert might be hotter. TJ is right about checking the reserve tank and looking for leaks.
If it can't maintain temperature and is slowly rising, even with average temperature range, above normal range. Radiator can not dissipate heat due to dirty and corrosion(*). Then i would check Restriction flow within radiator the issue. Switching termstat to lower temp quill only open sooner b will not lower average temp. Flushing radiators at old age tens to crate less flow a times. Start by cleaning outside of Radiator by using a acidic based cleaner, such as most rim cleaner contain. But also you can order a coil cleaner more costly will work faster.
Oops I just got mine up to 230 degrees as a result of driving like a maniac
