[Roadsters] Is this normal???

[Dave]

?the actual term here is that the water cavitates, which basically means it 
creates whirlpools and eddys, and doesn't flow in a smooth pattern.  as a 
result, it doesn't do a good job of cooling the surfaces because the flow is 
so uneven and you don't get good heat transfer.  the thermostat slows down 
the flow and cause that evenness.  even if you "gut" a thermostat - pull out 
the moving part, you create enough resistance that the water flows smoothly.

-----Original Message----- 
From: Jim Gammon
Sent: Monday, April 11, 2011 6:54 PM
To: Datsun roadster
Subject: Re: [Roadsters] Is this normal???

I don't know if this applies, but never run without a thermostat or with one
stuck open. I did it once, and the engine overheated until I replaced it.

I don't know why, but I think the water flows too fast or unevenly.

Jim NJ 69 2k