Ford Temperature

[betholdman]

Hello everyone, do you guys know what Ford recommends as the correct temperature thermostat for a 98 Ford Ranger SuperCab, 4.0, AT, 4WD. I don't know what's currently in the truck but it's been over 10 years since it's been changed. I've seen some in stores for 180 degrees and some for 195 degrees.

[65comet]

Both are usable. It depends mostly on your climate and a smaller amount on the age/mileage. If you have a lot of high heat days or an engine that is worn and would do better to run cooler, go with the lower. If you are freezing in your cab all the time in the winter, go with the higher. You could swap each spring/fall if you want a cooler running engine in the summer and don't want frost bitten toes in the winter.
But I've tended to stay with a cooler thermostat year round on any vehicle old enough to need a replacement thermostat. Then put cardboard in front of half the radiator on days below zero.