Thermostat and overheating problems

[Project240]

Where can I find a Nismo thermostat for my RB20? I'm having overheating problems and I suspect a thermostat would probably help me out. I'm seeing ones for the SR20DET, will they work? Or do I need to find one specifically for my RB20, from Taka Kaira or something??

[PROJECTRB240SX]

DON'T SUSPECT A THERMOSTAT.... IT CAN BE A USELESS EXPENSIVE UPGRADE. FIRST TEST YOUR THERMOSTAT, TEST YOUR AIR FLOW, TEST YOUR RADIATOR AND LINES, TEST YOUR WATER PUMP, ETC. PEOPLE ALWAYS JUMP INTO A THERMOSTAT AND ALOT OF TIMES THEY DON'T EVEN NEED IT.

A Z32 THERMOSTAT WORKS.

[Wulfgang]

I agree. Lower temperature thermostats do not solve overheating problems. Consider that at 200º F, both the OEM and the Nismo thermostats should be wide open. Both will provide the same cooling above that temperature. Since you are overheating, your water is getting over 240º F, and a colder thermostat won't help you.

Colder thermostats are for keeping properly cooled engines at a lower temperature, usually for only one reason: to reduce knock. If your engine is knocking but not overheating, then using a colder thermostat (as well as colder plugs) may help. If it's overheating, then fix the overheating problem first. Then go after the knock, if it is still present.

[PROJECTRB240SX]

one theory that I have found to be useful is that even with a proper operating cooling system if you live in a hto climate you may want to go to a hotter thermostat to give the water more cooling time in the radiator and in the engine.... this slows the flow and and increases cooling efficiency. Its worked for me in the past and It may work for you if you dictate that your cooling system is up to snuff but your cooling time isn't.

[goofynick6]

$10 at Advanced auto for a 1991 z32 stat