VW operating temp

[ARB1977]

Hey fellas this fall im changing out the water pump in our 2.0L. For awhile now...at least during the winter time it takes forever to get to full temp on the gauge. Im pretty sure the thermostat is stuck open. Ive got to take off the same componets to get to the thermostat...thats why the pump is getting changed as well.

Does anyone know what the operating temps are for the thermostat? Im thinking on getting a hotter thermostat (92 degrees C or 197 degrees F) Is there any issues that can happen while running a hotter thermostat...at least during summer driving?

 

[SWS]

I suggest that you carefully consider pros/cons of installing a hotter T-stat in what I think is an already hot-running, sludge-prone engine.

 

[robertcope]

I could be wrong, but I do not believe the N/A 2.0L is a sludger. More like a workhorse. I don't know why anyone would install a hotter thermostat, though. Just replace the busted one with a stock part.

robert

 

[scurvy]

The naturally aspirated two liter (2.slow) engine is not a sludger by any means. It isn't particularly powerful or efficient either, but it's very durable, cheap & easy to fix.

I also would not run a hotter or cooler thermostat. Replace it and the coolant with OEM and be done with it.

 

[ARCOgraphite]

You dont want a hotter T-stat. Radiator area/size is designed for the hottest climate cooling. This area is not required in the winter. So a 1/2 grill or radiator block off should do the trick - if you get the Wp and FACTORY t-stat working and the h-core and rad are working well. Watch you belt tension carefully.

 

[Quattro Pete]

Originally Posted By: ARB1977

Does anyone know what the operating temps are for the thermostat?

I believe the OEM thermostat is 87C, and I would stick with that.

 

[Familyguy]

The thermostat on that car is somewhat of a PITA to change. Unless you're positive it's running cold (i.e....no heat) it is much more likely that the temperature sender is bad. Those are cheap and easy to replace. If it is the thermostat, I would definitely NOT put a higher temp part in there. As you allow the engine temperature to go higher, mileage and power output both suffer.

The MK3 Jettas with the 2.0L get fantastic gas mileage and are not sludgers at all.

 

[Quattro Pete]

Originally Posted By: SWS
what I think is an already hot-running, sludge-prone engine.

You must be confusing it with some other engine.

 

[kbuzbee]

Originally Posted By: Quattro Pete
Originally Posted By: SWS
what I think is an already hot-running, sludge-prone engine.

You must be confusing it with some other engine.


Yeah, probably the 1.8T. Interesting thing, it only seems to be the Passat version, not the Jetta. Apparently they "messed up" the pickup tube. It gets blocked easily and sludge begins to form.

As said, definitely not an issue for the2.0.

Ken

 

[ARB1977]

Originally Posted By: SWS
I suggest that you carefully consider pros/cons of installing a hotter T-stat in what I think is an already hot-running, sludge-prone engine.

Its not hot running at all. During the winter months the PCV hoses are gummed up with white goo...even on average trips. During the summmer its awesome. Winter time its great but not that great. As far as sludge prone...none whats so ever.

 

[ARB1977]

Originally Posted By: robertcope
I could be wrong, but I do not believe the N/A 2.0L is a sludger. More like a workhorse. I don't know why anyone would install a hotter thermostat, though. Just replace the busted one with a stock part.

robert

Thanks for the reply. Ill stick with the stocker.

 

[ARB1977]

Originally Posted By: Quattro Pete

I believe the OEM thermostat is 87C, and I would stick with that.

Thanks Pete. I just checked with German Auto Parts and yes the stock unit is 87C.

 

[mechtech2]

A hotter thermostat will give better heat in the winter to the interior, for sure.
And cruising gas economy /efficiency will be a bit better.

But do I recommend it here? NO.
A good working factory temp therm is best.
Why?
Spark knock/pinging is #1. If you are at a fine line, this may throw it over the edge. You may have to go up a grade in fuel octane.
And if that car is turbo, don't even consider a hotter therm!

 

[ARB1977]

Originally Posted By: mechtech2
A hotter thermostat will give better heat in the winter to the interior, for sure.
And cruising gas economy /efficiency will be a bit better.

But do I recommend it here? NO.
A good working factory temp therm is best.
Why?
Spark knock/pinging is #1. If you are at a fine line, this may throw it over the edge. You may have to go up a grade in fuel octane.
And if that car is turbo, don't even consider a hotter therm!


I was thinking that too. Im sticking with the factory tsat instead. Thanks.