Control Your Engine Temp: High-Flow & NORS Thermostats
The thermostat is the gatekeeper of your engine's cooling system. In a vintage car, using a cheap, restrictive modern replacement can lead to overheating in traffic or erratic temperature fluctuations.
At Old Car Parts NW, we stock authentic NORS (New Old Replacement Stock) and High-Flow thermostats designed to keep your classic Ford, Chevy, or Mopar running in the sweet spot.
Why Upgrade to a High-Flow Thermostat?
Balanced Sleeve Design: Unlike standard thermostats that struggle against water pressure, our Robertshaw-style High Flow units use a balanced sleeve that opens smoothly regardless of RPM or water pump pressure. This is critical for high-performance V8s.
The Bellows Style (Pre-1960s): We carry rare alcohol-filled bellows thermostats for non-pressurized cooling systems found on pre-war vehicles. These are essential for correct operation in Model A Fords and early flatheads.
Which Temperature Do You Need?
160°F: Popular for older non-pressurized systems or engines prone to overheating in summer.
180°F: The standard factory specification for most 1960s-70s muscle cars; provides better combustion and heater performance.
195°F: Required for late-70s emissions-era vehicles to run efficiently.
