"Stock V6 thermostat is 180 degrees. You do not want to install a 195 degree unit."

Just curious, & I'm sure you're right, but how do you know this? I haven't had my old one out yet, so I don't know what temp was stamped on the original - maybe you have? (Are Motorcraft stats stamped?)

The Ford Shop Manual (page 03-03-24) says that it starts to open at 183-190, & is fully open at 210. Haynes manual says starts to open at 189-194, fully open at 216.

The Motorcraft stat for this engine, #RT-1104, is listed as a 190.

So I'm confused.... confused

'96 Contour SE 2.5L Duratec V6 MTX Teal
Purchased New - 9/95
43,000 Miles - I Know, I Need To Get That Water Pump Replaced!!
K&N Air Filter/K&N Oil Filter, Castrol Full Synthetic Oil - Switching to Mobile 1
Advance Auto Salesperson (When Not Working At My Reg Job [Wildlife Biologist])
(Hey, Why Not - I Get A 20% Discount & Have Access To All The Parts Catalogs!!!!)