Neil, the van at West River was from Quebec.  The van here was from Michigan.  I'd say the problem is widespread.  The large disc does not allow the thermostat to fully open as it hangs up on the smaller diameter opening in the bottom of the thermostat housing.  Also, the large disc blocks the bypass so cooling is not so good in the cold or hot mode, but really shows up when hot in hot climates.  Get them out and replaced with proper thermostats !

On 2012-07-23, at 12:00 AM, Automatic digest processor wrote:

> Thanks for posting those images and info Frank.
> 
> Since Dennis found an incorrect thermostat at a US campout, I assume
> this parts problem isn't limited to your neck of the woods.  (Eastern
> Canada)
> 
> I recently replaced my thermostat. With either old or new thermostat,
> even at highway speeds, temp gauge sits higher in warmer ambient
> temps, but sits at 12:00 in cooler ambient temps. (e.g. 17C). My rad
> is likely the issue, but given your post, I'm curious.
> 
> Will the amount or rate of coolant passing the larger disc on the
> incorrect thermostat be "ok" until all is pushed to the limit?  e.g.
> higher ambient temps, city driving etc. cause this lesser flow to
> allow an overheat condition?

Cheers,    

Frank Condelli
Almonte, Ontario, Canada
'87 VW Westy, '00 Kawasaki 250 Sherpa, "98 Ducati 750 Monster & Lionel Trains (Collection for sale)
Frank Condelli & Associates - Vanagon/Vanagon Westfalia Service in the Ottawa Valley
Vanagon Stainless Steel Exhaust Systems
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