Rusty,
If measure up all the holes in the head gasket/block/head [ I have done it ] , you will find their combined area exceeds that of the stat opening.....by a large amount. The stat becomes the restriction in the system that allows pressure to build up behind it. The pressure suppresses steam/air bubbles at hotspots [ such as near the exh valves ] that build up. Since air is a poor conductor of heat, anything that reduces 'air' in the cooing system & replaces it with coolant is a good thing. The cooling system is a balancing act, balancing flow & pressure.
You can come down anytime. Maybe I should try your meds.....
