Today I did the first in a long line of tune up items for my Duster: replacing the (busted) water temp sender. After running it for about 30 minutes, the needle had at least moved, but was still only a hair above the "bottom" line of the temp gauge. I figure the thermostat is either shot, or too cold of a temperature, so that's the next thing to replace (while I do a complete coolant flush and replace all hoses, the water pump and more'n likely the heater core). I've seen the Stant Superstat series mentioned a couple times, and looking it up on partsamerica.com, saw only the 195 degree flavor. Is this the right temp I want for my 225, or is there a better temp for the engine?

Also, recommendations on a brand for the water pump and heater core?

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'74 Duster w/ HEI ignition, beat to snot suspension, A904, 8.25" 3.55 SG rear, still being tuned up and gets 17 MPG

Know how they always build a better idiot? That's me

Are you sure it is the correct sender? (Been there, done that)

Oooooohhh, good call. Tard that I am, I didn't even look at the package it was in, which says "Pre 09/01/65"

D'OH!

I must be slapped

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'74 Duster w/ HEI ignition, beat to snot suspension, A904, 8.25" 3.55 SG rear, still being tuned up and gets 17 MPG

Know how they always build a better idiot? That's me

...and the thermostat you want is a 180° unit, not a 195°. Stant SuperStat #45358.

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一期一会
Too many people who were born on third base actually believe they've hit a triple.

I would break this project into 3 parts:

1) Correct temp. sender & thermostat. Do the hose change & system flushing at this time.
When you pull the top hose and thermo. cover, cram a hose into the head opening, stuff a rag around the gaps and backflush up thru the radiator. Then pull the bottom hose and flush again, also run some water thru the radiator, top to bottom once the bottom hose is off.

2) Heater Core, change only if it does not flush out or leaks.

3) Water pump, change only if it leaks or makes noise.

I find that a few "mini projects" helps to keep me focused and helps pin-point any true problem areas.
Keep plain water in the system until everything checks-out. Drain and add coolent after you are convinced that the sytem is leak free and working well.
DD