I'm going to keep this short, because its a simple concept. For years people have been spreading the word that a 160 stat will cause problems. This is true, as it hurts gas milage and MAY cause the cylinder walls to wear faster due to less expansion. If your fan turn on times aren't matched, it can allow a cycle of 160 to 220 degrees back and forth, which will contract and expand the cylinders.


However, there is a myth in here as well. Open loop operation does not care if you have a 160, 180, or 195 degree stat. Closed loop is based on exhaust temp (O2 sensor working properly), coolant isn't below freezing (i have to look up the exact temp again...its really low though), and the time the car has been running.