308 thermostat question | FerrariChat

308 thermostat question

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by Doc, Sep 24, 2004.

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  1. Doc

    Doc Formula Junior

    Sep 13, 2001
    886
    Latham, New York
    Full Name:
    Bill Van Dyne
    What type/brand of thermostat can be used in an '85 308 ? What is the stock temp rating?
     
  2. Mike C

    Mike C F1 Veteran
    Lifetime Rossa Owner

    Aug 3, 2002
    6,081
    Southeast USA
    Full Name:
    Mike Charness
    The "right" thermostat is one that you get from someone like a Ferrari dealer or T. Rutlands. If you want something local that will work with the same temp rating and size, but isn't as "heavy duty", then you can use one from a VW dealer that fits all Golfs/Rabbits 1980+, 180 degree, cost $12... or the Autozone equivalent p/n 437-180 $5.99.

    I personally think the heavy-duty one is worth the $35-45 price.
     
  3. Doc

    Doc Formula Junior

    Sep 13, 2001
    886
    Latham, New York
    Full Name:
    Bill Van Dyne
    Thanks, Mike.
     
  4. dave80gtsi

    dave80gtsi Formula 3
    Silver Subscribed

    Nov 3, 2003
    1,948
    Ohio
    Full Name:
    Dave Meredith
    The 308 takes the same size thermostat as is used in a whole whack of other cars, including small block Chevy's. In my case I bought a Mr. Gasket brand high flow 'racing' Chevy thermostat from Jeg's for something like $8.00 or so. The thermostat has a much larger opening than does the OEM Ferrari type, and it is available in different temperature ranges if you wish. I selected a 165 degree one (... at least, I think that's what it was), and even with the 308's A/C on full bore on a hot summer's day, the car ran nice and cool. Highly recommended, and a cheap upgrade fix for a 308 which ends to run too hot!
     
  5. Doc

    Doc Formula Junior

    Sep 13, 2001
    886
    Latham, New York
    Full Name:
    Bill Van Dyne
    The stock thermostat temp rating is 180 degrees?
     
  6. dave80gtsi

    dave80gtsi Formula 3
    Silver Subscribed

    Nov 3, 2003
    1,948
    Ohio
    Full Name:
    Dave Meredith
    No idea about the stock temp rating on the OEM thermostat, but most thermostats come in three flavors: 165 degrees, 180 degrees, and 195 degrees, so you pay your money and you make your choice. Me, I like the 165 one. - DM / Ohio
     
  7. Steve Magnusson

    Steve Magnusson Two Time F1 World Champ
    Lifetime Rossa

    Jan 11, 2001
    26,932
    30°30'40" N 97°35'41" W (Texas)
    Full Name:
    Steve Magnusson
    Check your OM -- e.g., page 61 of the US '84/'85 308QV OM:

    "...begins to open when the (coolant) mixture temperature reaches 176-185 deg F."
     

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