you really want it to run at 180-192 for best cylinder wear. Are you battling a cooling issue? I dont think a 170 will fix that. Whats the underlying issue?
I agree. Maybe study up on what the thermostat actually does and what it really controls instead of trying to reinvent the wheel. I would run a 180 or 195. I plan on a 195 high flow in the big block I am putting together.
