3.1 liter 180 degree thermostat?

[WoodChipper]

I'm hoping to flush out the cooling system on my 2000 Malibu with a 3.1 liter engine and am hoping to put in a 180 degree thermostat. I've been to all of the local auto parts stores and they say there isn't such a thing for that year car. I know it isn't a standard option for the car, but does anyone know if there is a 180 degree thermostat that will fit this car? If so, what is the make and part number?

Thanks,
WoodChipper.

[gapboi210]

I have been looking for one also. I have not been able to find one. I tried Hypertech. But they said there was not enough demand to produce any performance upgrades.

[nightracer352]

by the way the 3100 is not the same as a 3.1

[richtazz]

unless you hate good mileage and low emissions, I wouldn't put a 180 stat in that car. The computer will think the engine isn't properly warmed up and will throw off fuel and ignition curves.

[barry505]

Originally Posted by nightracer352

by the way the 3100 is not the same as a 3.1

3100 cc's = 3.1 liters - same thing

[barry505]

What makes you think a 180 degree t-stat would be a performance upgrade? It ain't like the old days anymore. The ecm wants the engine running around 200 degree's.

[gapboi210]

It isn't a performance upgrade. Hypertech sells performance upgrades and lower temp thermostats. Thats the company that I contacted. After performance upgrades you might want to put a lower temp thermostat. Motor are running hotter in newer vehicles but that is for emissions. Still doesn't mean that it is good for the motor.

[nightracer352]

3.1=gen2

3100=gen3


differnce is bigger than you might think

you go to a auto store ask for a part for the 3.1 and not the 3100 sfi (sequential fuel injection) your screwed the parts are just not the same and the block is also completly differnt

[richtazz]

They suggest the 180 stat in some vehicles because the leaner air/fuel mixture their aftermarket chips uses will cause the car to overheat. IF you have no other mods, a 180 stat is a performance reducer, not performance enhancer.

[bowtie4ever1986]

if you do find a 180 stat i wouldnt use it your computer will throw a code and shut down the temp gauge i no my stat went out and stuck open and the temp was bellow norm and the gauge stoped working until i replaced it.

[dwalmop]

1.0 L = 1000 cc's
3.1 L = 3100 cc's
This is a standard conversion factor.
BUT 3.1 L usually is designated for MPI
3100 normally SFI