Best operating temp

[68 Firebird]

 Just wanted to see the consensus for operating temp. My firebird runs better with a 180
T-stat then with a lower temp stat. I was pondering going to a 195 and just wanted to see
What others are running.  In my area all 93 octane fuel has 10%ethanol and is a factor.
What temps do ou guys shoot for.

Gerry C

[Cliff Ruggles]

NEVER use less than a 180 stat in those older engines.  Running them too cold is hard on the parts, and on the wallet as they will consume more fuel for "normal" driving. 

With correct tuning your engine may favor the 195 stat, and it will not hurt anything being in there.  Most modern engines run pretty hot.  The engineers figured out that thermal efficiency can work in their favor when it comes to using the least amount of fuel per mile, and make more power, etc.....Cliff