drilling thermostat

[3100]

just wanted to know if somebody has tried drilling holes in thermostat, and did it help to solve overheating problem?

[chevyrulespops]

that would defeat the purpose of the thermostat....my car was running hot when the head gasket was failing... I also experienced air in my system which made the car overheat quite quickly...I relieved the air by unscrewing the little screw on the bypass outlet that comes out the waterpump

[3100]

I have read some good results about drilling thermostat at 12 and 6 o'clock
12 for air pressure buildup release, and 6 for small constant circulation of coolant. Some racing experts say it helps to eliminate buildup of air pockets and sudden temp changes from hot to much cooler coolant when it enters hot engine.

[chevyrulespops]

that does make some sense...especially if you're pushing the envolopes of the car...racing it will cause spikes of temps and increase the chance of boilover and air becoming trapped where you dont want it

[fourwd1]

Plus, if the t-stat fails and won't open, at least some coolant can flow thru.
It does help in some cases where the temp spikes. Some Japanese manufacturers use a 2-stage stat that serves the same purpose.