360 engine

leaving the stat out with no restriction you get way too much and too fast flow
when getting a pump get one with a plate behind the impeller or a solid impeller
the plate prevents circulation around the impeller and holds down cavitation (which is easier if no thermostat)
The service bulletins on my Dakota go to a better pump, 18 lb cap, higher temp fan clutch actuation 185>195 and a 9 fin fan (2.5 versus old 3" pitch)7 blade (gm is using 11)
as with all stats they are all the same when wide open (well some stats flow more than others but try and find a Robertshaw balanced stat)