what is the differnce between the 160 degree thermostat that hypertech sells ( looks like the stock one w/spring ) and the cheap one at autozone , pep boys ,and why should I buy the hypertech is it better for some reason

 

the one at pepboys or autozone may not be for the LT1. The LT1 Thermo is different than the other small block chevy t-stats. You're better off just going with the hypertech...plus they're only like 20 bucks.

 

Make sure both are for the LT1 since the LT1 uses a special reverse coolant flow. I have heard of people getting a 160 degree themostat from AutoZone for about $8. There's no difference in quality. Just price.

Get the cheapest one.

 

Dont forget, you need something to tell the fans to turn on, otherwise the 160 tstat is pointless.

I.E: Hyper-crap, jet or slp fan switch, or custom programming ( www.madz28.com or www.pcmforless.com )

 

I don't agree with that statement, but you want the long thermostat that is made to work with your reverse flow system.

 

ok I have the regular small block thermostat(160) have reset the fans for this , but the car never seems to get hot , or eaven warm, I'm in FL so winter is not very cold , I have to block off 80% of the radiator to get it warm (170 to 180) , but in the summer it stays @ 160 or below most of the time , some times when a little cool outside it takes 10 to 15 min of driving to go to closed loop , I think I will try the other t/stat , any suggestions

 

Well from what i understand the thermostat for the LT1 is what they call a 2 way thermostat.It mixes cool water from the rad with hot water from the block.I would recommend you get the proper thermostat.