FORD-50 170° Performance Thermostat

The Reische FORD-50 is a second-generation, 170° performance thermostat engineered for optimal cooling in high-performance Ford applications. It is constructed using the same components as OEM units, including a rubberized diaphragm, and features proper bypass control to ensure maximum efficiency within your cooling system. This thermostat is 100% made in the USA, distinguishing it from lesser quality imports. Reische advocates for the 170° opening temperature as the ideal balance for performance engines. This setting promotes high flow to the radiator by mid-180°F temperatures while maintaining good all-season drivability. With appropriate fan settings, coolant temperatures can be expected to stay in the 170s in cool weather and the 180s in hot weather. This is particularly beneficial for engines running advanced timing or increased boost levels, as it provides enhanced protection against detonation and can contribute to maximum horsepower output. Performance data from testing on a 2013 F150 EcoBoost 3.5L indicated sustained idle ECTs of 180°, with a 60mph cruise at 177°, and the highest logged temperature reaching 187°. Testing on a 2012 Mustang 5.0L showed sustained idle ECTs of 189°, with a 60mph cruise at 183°, and the highest logged temperature at 189°. Customer feedback suggests that the Reische 170° thermostat can result in significantly lower coolant temperatures compared to some 160° thermostats, with one user reporting a decrease from consistent 199° ECTs to a high of 180° with the Reische unit. Achieving optimal performance may require adjusting fan settings in the vehicle's tune to lower them, thereby improving heat dissipation, especially when the vehicle is not in motion. For many late-model Ford systems, this adjustment necessitates a custom tune or tuning software, as standard handheld programmers may not offer this capability. The system's estimation of coolant temperature can vary, potentially showing a range from 165-205°F depending on conditions and fan settings.