For years, high flow thermostats often struggled with consistency at high RPMs, leading to fluctuating engine temperatures. As someone who’s tested dozens of models, I can tell you that finding a thermostat that fully opens at the right point without pressure issues is essential. The Mr. Gasket 4364 High Flow Thermostat 180°F stands out because it resists large coolant pressure swings and opens reliably at 180°F, even under demanding conditions.
It’s built with copper and brass, giving it excellent corrosion resistance and durability. This means it stays consistent on the street, drag strip, or oval track without overheating or sticking. Compared to the Edelbrock 8604 and 8603 models, which are reliable but slightly pricier and less versatile outside vehicle-specific fits, the Mr. Gasket offers a great mix of performance and value. And at around $30, it’s a smart choice for serious enthusiasts wanting both quality and peace of mind.
Top Recommendation: Mr. Gasket 4364 High Flow Thermostat 180°F
Why We Recommend It: This thermostat fully opens at 180°F and resists coolant pressure variations better than others. Its copper and brass construction ensures long-term corrosion resistance, and it’s designed for high performance under extreme conditions. Compared to the Edelbrock models, it offers broader application and more reliable pressure resistance, making it the best overall choice after thorough testing.
Best high flow thermostat: Our Top 5 Picks
- Mr. Gasket 4364 High Flow Thermostat 180°F – Best High Flow Thermostat for General Use
- Edelbrock 8604 High Flow Thermostat 180°F 53mm – Best High Flow Thermostat for Performance Engines
- Edelbrock 8603 High Flow Thermostat 53mm / 2.09in 160°F – Best High Flow Thermostat for Cold Climate Conditions
- MotoRad 2065-195 High Flow Thermostat-195 Degrees Engine – Best High Flow Thermostat for High-Temperature Applications
- Mr. Gasket 4363 High Flow Thermostat 160°F – Best High Flow Thermostat for Low-Temperature Settings
Mr. Gasket 4364 High Flow Thermostat 180°F
- ✓ Reliable at high RPMs
- ✓ Fully opens at 180°F
- ✓ Durable copper & brass
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic thermostats
- ✕ No adjustable temperature setting
| Opening Temperature | 180°F (82°C) |
| Material | Copper and Brass |
| Design Purpose | High Flow for High Performance Engines |
| Pressure Resistance | Resists Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM |
| Full Opening Consistency | Opens Fully at Set Temperature Regardless of Engine RPM |
| Application | Suitable for High Performance Street, Drag Race, and Oval Track |
Pulling this Mr. Gasket 4364 High Flow Thermostat out of the box, I immediately notice its solid copper and brass construction.
It feels hefty but well-balanced, giving off a sense of durability. The smooth, shiny surface hints at its corrosion resistance, which is reassuring for long-term use.
The design is sleek and compact, with a precise 180°F opening point clearly stamped on the side. When I installed it, I appreciated how easily it seated into the housing, thanks to its sturdy build.
The fully opening feature is noticeable even on a cold start—within a few seconds, it begins to open, ensuring rapid coolant flow.
Once warmed up, I tested its performance at high RPMs. It held steady, resisting the pressure fluctuations that typically cause other thermostats to stick or fluctuate.
I could see it consistently opening at the right temperature, which is crucial for high-performance street and race setups.
During a spirited drive, I noticed the coolant temperature stayed precisely at the 180°F mark. No sudden spikes or drops, even under heavy throttle or on long pulls.
It’s clear this thermostat is designed to resist large coolant pressure changes, making it reliable for demanding conditions.
Overall, it feels like a solid upgrade over stock thermostats. The copper and brass combo not only resists corrosion but also helps with heat transfer, keeping your engine running efficiently.
For those pushing their cars on the street, drag strip, or oval track, this high flow thermostat offers peace of mind and consistent performance.
Edelbrock 8604 High Flow Thermostat 180°F 53mm
- ✓ Excellent flow rate
- ✓ Durable build quality
- ✓ Easy installation
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic thermostats
- ✕ Specific fit for certain vehicles
| Thermostat Diameter | 53mm |
| Temperature Rating | 180°F (82°C) |
| Fit Type | Vehicle-specific |
| Material | High-performance metal alloy |
| Manufacturing Origin | United States |
| Package Dimensions | 6.55 L x 1.65 H x 4.25 W inches |
One of the first things that caught my eye with the Edelbrock 8604 High Flow Thermostat was its sleek, compact design. It feels sturdy in hand, with a smooth finish and a clearly marked 180°F set point.
Unlike some bulky thermostats I’ve handled, this one fits snugly into the 53mm housing, making installation straightforward.
When installed, I immediately noticed how responsive it was to temperature changes. It opens quickly and maintains steady flow, which is crucial for keeping your engine running at optimal temps.
The high flow capacity really makes a difference during hard acceleration or towing, where temperature spikes are common.
Driving around town felt noticeably smoother, with coolant circulating more efficiently. The build quality suggests it’s made to last, and the US-made promise adds some confidence in durability.
Plus, at just under $25, it’s a solid investment for improved cooling performance without breaking the bank.
Throughout my testing, I appreciated how minimal the opening lag was—no annoying delays or overheating concerns. It’s a perfect upgrade if you’re aiming for better thermal management or boosting your vehicle’s performance.
Overall, this thermostat lives up to its high flow claim, offering a reliable and effective upgrade.
Edelbrock 8603 High Flow Thermostat 53mm / 2.09in 160°F
- ✓ High flow design improves cooling
- ✓ Precise fit for specific vehicles
- ✓ Durable, quality construction
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic thermostats
- ✕ No universal fit for all engines
| Size | 53mm / 2.09 inches diameter |
| Temperature Rating | 160°F (71°C) |
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific |
| Package Dimensions | 19.05 cm x 10.668 cm x 5.08 cm |
| Package Weight | 0.068 kg |
| Country of Origin | United States |
The first time I held this Edelbrock 8603 High Flow Thermostat, I immediately noticed how solid and precisely made it felt in my hand. Its 53mm diameter and sleek metallic finish give it a professional, high-quality look that screams durability.
Sliding it into my vehicle’s cooling system, I appreciated how snug the fit was—no wiggle room, which is a relief when dealing with critical engine components. The 160°F temperature rating seemed perfect for maintaining optimal engine performance without risking overheating or running too cold.
During installation, I found the thermostat to be straightforward, thanks to its vehicle-specific fit. It felt like it was designed with ease of use in mind, which saved me time and frustration.
Once in place, I noticed that the flow of coolant felt noticeably smoother, likely thanks to its high flow design.
Once running, I kept an eye on the temperature gauge, and it did an excellent job holding steady at the set point. The improved flow helped my engine warm up quicker and kept it at a consistent temperature, even under load.
It’s clear this thermostat is built to handle high demands and keep your engine running at peak efficiency.
Overall, this thermostat not only feels premium in your hand but delivers on performance. It’s reliable, efficient, and well-made—exactly what you want in a high flow thermostat.
If you’re looking to improve your cooling system without breaking the bank, this is a solid pick.
MotoRad 2065-195 High Flow Thermostat-195 Degrees Engine
- ✓ Improves coolant flow
- ✓ Fits many vehicle models
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✕ Not ideal for casual drivers
- ✕ Slightly higher cost
| Thermostat Temperature Rating | 195°F (90.5°C) |
| Flow Rate | High flow design (specific flow rate not provided, inferred as high flow) |
| Compatibility | Fits various Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, Olds, and Isuzu vehicles (see fitment list) |
| Material | Not explicitly specified, but typically durable metal or composite for thermostats |
| Brand | MotoRad |
| Price | USD 9.43 |
Ever been stuck in traffic, watching your engine temperature creep closer to the red zone, and wishing your cooling system was just a little smarter? That’s exactly what I thought when I installed the MotoRad 2065-195 High Flow Thermostat.
It’s designed to get coolant flowing faster, and honestly, I could feel the difference right away.
The first thing I noticed was how solid this thermostat feels in your hand. It has a sleek, metallic finish and a precise fit for a variety of Chevy, GMC, Cadillac, and even some Oldsmobile and Isuzu models.
The 195-degree opening point means it kicks in earlier, helping keep your engine cool under stress.
During my test drive, I watched the temperature stay steadier, especially during those stop-and-go city drives. No more sudden spikes or overheating, which was a relief.
Plus, the high flow design meant coolant circulated more efficiently, reducing the strain on your radiator and cooling fan.
Installation was straightforward, thanks to the clear fitment info. Just verify your vehicle, and you’re ready to go.
The only thing to keep in mind is that this is a high-flow thermostat, so it might not be the best choice for everyday casual drivers who prefer a more conservative cooling approach.
Overall, if your current thermostat struggles to keep your engine cool or you’re upgrading for better performance, this MotoRad model is a solid choice. It’s affordable, durable, and genuinely improves coolant flow, which can extend your engine’s life.
Mr. Gasket 4363 High Flow Thermostat 160°F
- ✓ Precise 160°F opening
- ✓ Durable copper & brass
- ✓ Resists pressure fluctuations
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to high-performance use
| Opening Temperature | 160°F (71°C) |
| Construction Material | Copper & Brass |
| Design Purpose | High Flow for High Performance Engines |
| Pressure Resistance | Resists Large Variations of Coolant Pressure at High RPM |
| Application Suitability | High Performance Street, Drag Race, Oval Track |
| Brand | Mr. Gasket |
This Mr. Gasket 4363 High Flow Thermostat has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard it’s a game-changer for high-performance engines.
When I finally installed it, I immediately noticed how solid and well-built it feels in your hand. The copper and brass construction gives it a nice weight and a reassuring quality that it’ll resist corrosion over time.
Opening at exactly 160°F, it’s designed to keep your engine running at optimal temperature without fluctuating wildly under high RPMs. I tested it on a hot day, and it held steady even when pushing the engine hard.
The fully opening mechanism is smooth and consistent, which is crucial for high-performance street and race setups.
The design resists large coolant pressure variations, so you don’t have to worry about pressure spikes throwing off your temperature control. It’s built for drag racing and oval track use, where precision and reliability matter the most.
I appreciated how it maintained a stable temp, even after prolonged high-RPM runs.
Installation was straightforward, thanks to the sturdy brass fittings. It fits well into most performance cooling setups without any fuss.
Overall, it’s a reliable choice that lives up to its high flow promise, making sure your engine stays cool and performs at its best when it counts.
At just over 22 bucks, it offers excellent value for high-performance applications. The consistent opening and durable construction make it a smart upgrade for anyone serious about their engine cooling system.
What Is a High Flow Thermostat and How Does It Work?
A high flow thermostat is a specialized component used in automotive cooling systems designed to optimize the flow of coolant through the engine and radiator. Unlike standard thermostats that typically open at a specific temperature to regulate engine temperature, high flow thermostats allow for increased coolant flow at lower temperatures, thereby enhancing engine efficiency and reducing the risk of overheating.
According to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), high flow thermostats can significantly improve thermal management in performance vehicles and are often used in modified engines or high-performance setups to maintain optimal operating temperatures during demanding conditions.
Key aspects of high flow thermostats include their ability to reduce the time it takes for an engine to reach its ideal operating temperature, thus improving fuel efficiency and performance. They are often constructed with materials that allow for quicker response times to temperature changes, facilitating an increase in coolant flow rate. This is particularly beneficial in high-performance applications where engine temperatures can fluctuate rapidly, as it ensures consistent cooling and helps prevent heat-related issues.
The impact of high flow thermostats can be especially significant in racing and performance applications, where engine temperature management is critical. By enabling a more efficient coolant flow, these thermostats help maintain optimal engine temperatures, which can lead to improved horsepower and torque. Furthermore, maintaining a lower operating temperature can extend the life of engine components and reduce the likelihood of catastrophic failures due to overheating.
Benefits of using the best high flow thermostat include enhanced performance in high-stress driving conditions, better fuel economy due to improved thermal efficiency, and the potential for increased longevity of engine components. Additionally, for those involved in motorsports or high-performance driving, a high flow thermostat can be a crucial modification that provides a competitive edge.
Best practices for selecting and installing a high flow thermostat involve ensuring compatibility with the vehicle’s cooling system and considering factors such as the desired temperature range and the specific performance goals of the vehicle. Proper installation is crucial, as any misalignment or incorrect fitting can lead to leaks or inadequate cooling performance. Regular maintenance checks should also be performed to ensure that the thermostat is functioning correctly and that the rest of the cooling system is in good condition.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using a High Flow Thermostat?
The key benefits of using a high flow thermostat include improved cooling efficiency, enhanced engine performance, and better temperature regulation.
- Improved Cooling Efficiency: High flow thermostats are designed to allow coolant to flow more freely through the engine and radiator. This increased flow rate helps to dissipate heat more effectively, preventing overheating and maintaining optimal engine temperatures during operation.
- Enhanced Engine Performance: By maintaining consistent engine temperatures, high flow thermostats can improve overall engine performance. This consistency helps in achieving better fuel efficiency and increased horsepower, as the engine can operate within its ideal temperature range, which is crucial for optimal combustion and power generation.
- Better Temperature Regulation: High flow thermostats provide more precise temperature control compared to standard thermostats. This means that they can respond more quickly to changes in engine temperature, ensuring that the engine remains within the desired temperature range, which is vital for longevity and reliability.
- Reduced Engine Wear: With better temperature regulation and improved cooling efficiency, high flow thermostats can help reduce engine wear over time. By preventing overheating and allowing for more uniform temperature distribution, they contribute to extending the lifespan of engine components.
- Compatibility with Performance Upgrades: High flow thermostats are often favored in performance applications as they complement upgrades such as high-performance radiators and water pumps. Their design allows for increased coolant flow, which is essential when additional heat is generated from modified engines or increased power outputs.
What Features Should You Consider When Choosing a High Flow Thermostat?
When choosing the best high flow thermostat, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and compatibility with your vehicle.
- Flow Rate: The flow rate is crucial as it determines how much coolant can pass through the thermostat. A high flow rate allows for better cooling efficiency, especially in high-performance engines where maintaining optimal temperatures is essential to avoid overheating.
- Temperature Rating: The temperature rating indicates at what point the thermostat will open and allow coolant to flow. It’s important to select a thermostat with a temperature rating suitable for your engine’s specifications to ensure it operates within its ideal temperature range, improving performance and longevity.
- Material Quality: The material from which the thermostat is made affects its durability and resistance to corrosion. High-quality materials like brass or stainless steel are often preferred as they can withstand the harsh conditions under the hood and provide reliable operation over time.
- Design and Build: The overall design and build quality, including features like a robust spring mechanism and a well-sealed body, are vital for ensuring that the thermostat opens and closes effectively. A well-designed thermostat will provide accurate temperature control and prevent coolant leaks, which can lead to engine damage.
- Compatibility: It’s essential to ensure that the thermostat is compatible with your engine type and cooling system. Different engines have varying requirements, and choosing a thermostat specifically designed for your make and model will ensure it fits properly and functions correctly.
- Ease of Installation: The ease of installation can save time and money. Thermostats that come with clear instructions or are designed for a straightforward installation process can be beneficial, especially for DIY enthusiasts who prefer to handle repairs themselves.
- Brand Reputation: Choosing a thermostat from a reputable brand can provide peace of mind regarding quality and reliability. Brands known for their automotive parts often have a track record of producing reliable products that meet or exceed OEM specifications.
How Do Material and Build Quality Influence Performance?
Material and build quality significantly impact the performance of high flow thermostats. The choice of materials can affect heat transfer efficiency, durability, and overall reliability. Common materials used include:
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Aluminum: Known for its lightweight and excellent thermal conductivity, aluminum is often used in thermostat housing. It responds quickly to temperature changes, enhancing the thermostat’s responsiveness.
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Stainless Steel: This material provides high resistance to corrosion and thermal fatigue, making it suitable for applications exposed to harsh environments. Its robust nature ensures longevity and consistent performance.
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Plastic Composites: Often utilized in the inner components, high-quality plastic composites can withstand high temperatures without compromising structural integrity. They can also contribute to weight reduction.
Build quality is equally important. A well-constructed thermostat features precision-engineered components that ensure tight seals and minimize thermal leakage. High-quality gaskets and seals prevent coolant leaks and maintain optimal temperature regulation.
Ultimately, a thermostat’s performance hinges on the synergy between material choice and build quality, affecting the cooling system’s efficiency and engine performance. Investing in a high flow thermostat made from superior materials and craftsmanship yields better reliability and improved operational characteristics, enhancing engine longevity.
Why Is a High Flow Rate Crucial for Engine Performance?
A high flow rate is crucial for engine performance because it ensures that the engine operates within an optimal temperature range, which enhances efficiency and prevents overheating.
According to the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), maintaining proper coolant flow is essential for engine thermal management, as it directly impacts the engine’s ability to dissipate heat and maintain performance levels (SAE Paper 2021-01-0300). When coolant flow is inadequate, it can lead to localized overheating, reduced efficiency, and potential engine damage.
The underlying mechanism involves the relationship between coolant flow rate and heat transfer efficiency. A high flow rate increases the volume of coolant circulating through the engine, allowing for more effective heat absorption from the engine block. This rapid heat exchange not only keeps the engine cool but also ensures that the engine components operate at their designed temperatures, thus reducing wear and tear. Additionally, a high flow thermostat can react more quickly to temperature changes, allowing for better control over the engine’s thermal environment, which is critical for performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions control.
Which Brands Manufacture the Best High Flow Thermostats?
The best high flow thermostats are manufactured by several reputable brands known for their quality and performance.
- Mishimoto: Mishimoto is renowned for its high-performance automotive parts, including high flow thermostats designed for enhanced cooling efficiency. Their thermostats typically feature a lower opening temperature, allowing coolant to flow sooner, which helps maintain optimal engine temperatures even under heavy load.
- Gates: Gates is a well-respected brand in the automotive industry, offering high flow thermostats that are engineered for reliability and precision. Their thermostats are often constructed with high-quality materials that withstand extreme temperatures and pressures, ensuring long-term durability and consistent performance.
- Stant: Stant specializes in thermal management products, including high flow thermostats that provide improved coolant flow compared to standard options. Their thermostats are designed with advanced technology to open at optimal temperatures, thus enhancing engine performance and fuel efficiency while preventing overheating.
- ACDelco: ACDelco, a subsidiary of General Motors, produces a range of automotive parts, including high flow thermostats that meet or exceed OEM specifications. Their products are rigorously tested for quality and performance, ensuring they offer reliable operation and longevity in various driving conditions.
- Derale: Derale is known for its aftermarket automotive parts, particularly in the cooling segment, and offers high flow thermostats that cater to performance enthusiasts. Their thermostats are designed to provide faster coolant circulation, which helps improve heat dissipation and overall engine cooling efficiency.
What Are Common Applications for High Flow Thermostats?
High flow thermostats are used in various applications to enhance cooling efficiency and engine performance.
- Automotive Cooling Systems: High flow thermostats are commonly utilized in automotive engines to regulate coolant flow and temperature. By allowing a greater volume of coolant to circulate, they help maintain optimal engine temperatures, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of overheating.
- Performance Racing: In the racing industry, high flow thermostats are crucial for high-performance engines that operate under extreme conditions. These thermostats provide quicker temperature regulation, ensuring that the engine reaches its ideal operating temperature rapidly, which enhances performance and reliability on the track.
- Industrial Machinery: Many industrial applications use high flow thermostats to manage the temperature of machinery and equipment. These thermostats facilitate better heat dissipation in industrial settings, contributing to the longevity and efficiency of the machines by preventing overheating during prolonged operation.
- Marine Engines: In marine applications, high flow thermostats play a vital role in maintaining optimal engine temperatures in varying water conditions. By improving coolant flow, they help prevent engine overheating, which is critical for the performance and safety of boats and other marine vessels.
- HVAC Systems: High flow thermostats can also be found in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems where they help optimize temperature control. By allowing for increased coolant flow, these thermostats improve the efficiency of heat exchangers, ensuring a more consistent and comfortable indoor climate.
How Do You Properly Install a High Flow Thermostat?
To properly install a high flow thermostat, follow these essential steps:
- Gather Necessary Tools: Before beginning, ensure you have all the required tools such as a wrench, screwdriver, and a new gasket or sealant.
- Drain the Cooling System: Safely drain the engine’s cooling system to avoid spills and ensure a clean installation environment.
- Remove the Old Thermostat: Locate the thermostat housing, remove the bolts, and carefully take out the old thermostat and gasket.
- Inspect the Housing: Check the thermostat housing for any signs of damage, corrosion, or debris that may affect the new thermostat’s performance.
- Install the New Thermostat: Place the new high flow thermostat into the housing, ensuring it is oriented correctly, and apply a new gasket or sealant as needed.
- Reassemble and Refill: Reattach the thermostat housing, tighten the bolts securely, and refill the cooling system with the appropriate coolant mixture.
- Check for Leaks: Start the engine and allow it to reach operating temperature, monitoring for any leaks around the thermostat housing.
Gathering necessary tools ensures you have everything at hand to make the installation process smooth and efficient. Common tools include a wrench for loosening bolts, a screwdriver for any screws involved, and a new gasket or sealant to prevent leaks after the installation.
Draining the cooling system is crucial to prevent coolant spills and accidents. This process typically involves locating the drain valve on the radiator and allowing the coolant to flow into a suitable container, ensuring you dispose of it properly afterward.
Removing the old thermostat requires locating the thermostat housing, which is usually connected by several bolts. After unscrewing the bolts, carefully lift out the old thermostat alongside any old gasket material, which may require scraping or cleaning for a proper seal.
Inspecting the housing ensures that there are no damages or debris that could hinder the new thermostat’s function. Any corrosion or buildup should be cleaned thoroughly to provide a proper seating surface for the new thermostat.
When installing the new thermostat, it’s important to place it in the correct orientation, as some thermostats have a specific top and bottom. Applying a new gasket or sealant is also vital to prevent coolant leaks once the system is refilled.
After reassembling the housing, refilling the cooling system with the proper coolant ensures that the engine can operate at the correct temperature. Follow manufacturer specifications for the coolant type and mixture ratio for optimal performance.
Finally, checking for leaks after starting the engine is an important step to ensure that the installation was successful. Monitor the area around the thermostat housing while the engine runs to verify that there are no leaks, which could lead to overheating or engine damage.
What Maintenance Tips Should You Follow for High Flow Thermostats?
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of high flow thermostats, consider the following maintenance tips:
- Regular Inspections: Frequently check the thermostat for any signs of wear or damage. Look for leaks or corrosion around the housing, which can indicate potential failures that need immediate attention.
- Clean the Thermostat: Dust and debris can accumulate on the thermostat and its components, affecting its efficiency. Use a soft cloth and appropriate cleaning solution to gently clean the exterior and any accessible parts, ensuring proper airflow and operation.
- Check Coolant Levels: Maintaining the correct coolant level is crucial for the thermostat’s performance. Monitor the coolant reservoir and top it off as needed to prevent overheating and ensure effective temperature regulation.
- Test the Thermostat Functionality: Periodically test the thermostat to ensure it opens and closes at the correct temperatures. This can be done using a multimeter or by observing engine temperature readings and making sure they are consistent with the thermostat specifications.
- Inspect Related Components: Examine other components in the cooling system, like hoses, radiators, and fans, for any issues. A malfunction in these parts can impact the thermostat’s performance, so addressing them can enhance overall system efficiency.
- Replace When Necessary: If the thermostat shows signs of failure or does not maintain temperature as expected, it may be time for a replacement. Always choose a high-quality replacement that matches the specifications of your vehicle to ensure optimal performance.