Never knew factory installed thermostat not available in aftermarket

[Dibbons]

Pulled out my thermostat housing to repair a seepage (1972 SSP 318). Autozone had previously sold me a thermostat (195 degrees). Referring to my 1972 manual:

From Factory Service Manual (7-8 Cooling System)

Thermostat
The thermostat is actuated by a pellet containing a copper-impregnated wax as shown in (Fig 5). As the temperature of the pellet increases the wax expands and opens the valve. A 185 degrees thermostat is standard equipment.

Doing a little research (and from past experience) I only see 195, 180, 160 (and a 205!) available. I think I will change out the 195 for the 180, it's closer (but not exact) to what it had when new. Comments/suggestions?

 

[Moparsmitty]

I would use a 180 degree thermostat. I would use a Mr. Gasket #4367 but that's just my personal preference. I've had cheap generic part store thermostats fail right out of the box.

 

[72RoadrunnerGTX]

The 195 will give you better all-around drivability with currently available pump gas.

 

[72Fourspeed]

Be sure to drill it !