LOW temp Thermostats
 

Can i just throw in a low temp thermo? or do i need to reprogram stuff? or better yet would i even want to at this point with my mods?

well you won't get the full benefits of the low temp stat without a tune that changes the fan on/off temps. The degree stat (160/180) is the degree at which the stat is completely open. The decrease in operating temp will be minimal without changing the fan settings. I have basically the same mods on 96 gt 5-speed and do have a 180* stat. From what I have read, 160* is really only for special applications, as our engines do not perform well in that cold of a range. Installation was a breeze. All you need to do is drain coolant so the level is below the thermostat, remove the radiator hose from the stat housing and the 2 bolts holding the housing. Then simply pull the old stat and replace with the new one and reattach everything. The stat is cheap and installation is simple if you choose to do it. And as I said, you will see the most benefit by changing the fan temps, but as far as just swapping the stats, there is nothing that you would need to change.

I changed to a 180 stat and nothing else was needed, however I did change the fans temps for turning on and off...

how modest would the power gains be if i got a 180* stat and got a new tune for my fans

I do not think anyone really knows the answer for sure, but it should be real. I would estimate maybe about 5 or so just based on reading dyno results done when cars are hot vs. when they are cooler.

Keep in mind, the cooler temps may make it harder to pass emissions.

Swapped out to a 180* thermostat about a year ago. Car ran somewhat cooler.

The best way to increase the cooling capacity of your current system is get it tuned so the fans come on earlier. My car runs ~15* cooler on average versus before the tune.

Hope that helps,
Philip K.