Summer Heat vs. Performance

[treynor]

I've noticed on the dyno that as soon as the coolant on my '01 gets above 200 degrees or so, the ECU starts running a rich mixture and I lose ~20HP above 4,500 RPM. Assuming that observation translates to the track, then yes, there's a performance penalty for running hot. There's almost certainly an engine longevity penalty as well -- whether it's enough of one to make a difference over the useful life of the car is an interesting question...

 

[RECOIL]

Most of the other cars I have owned sport 180 degree thermostats... are these available for the Viper?

Pardon my ignorance.

Steve

 

[treynor]

I've seen the power drop occur with both ECUs.

Yes, there is a 180-degree thermostat available. I got mine through JonB @ Parts rack, at the same time as I picked up a Fluidyne radiatior. I haven't installed the thermostat yet because it apparently requires pulling the intake, and since I'm having the heads off in a week, I decided to wait. Will certainly report results once it's all done.

 

[Tom Glenn]

I have a 96 GTS with a Ron Davis Aluminum radiator and the Sean Roe Ducting kit. Both mods helped but, if I am running a predominetly 3rd gear track and ambient temperature is anywhere near 90 deg after 15-20 min into the session I am approching 250 deg. I would love to hear what other people have done to solve this.