Engine Coolant Thermostat Guide for 1962-1966 Studebaker Cruiser
Keep your Studebaker's engine temperature in check by understanding, diagnosing, and replacing your thermostat.
- A failing thermostat can cause serious engine overheating (if stuck closed) or poor performance and heating (if stuck open).
- For a Studebaker Cruiser, a 180°F thermostat is a safe, standard choice for most climates and driving conditions.
- Reputable aftermarket brands like Gates and Motorad offer reliable, affordable replacements; new gaskets are essential for the job.
- Replacement is a simple, DIY-friendly task that typically takes less than an hour with basic tools.
Symptoms of a Failing Thermostat
A thermostat is a wear item, and when it fails, it usually gets stuck in either the open or closed position. Both situations can cause problems for your Studebaker's engine.
Stuck Closed
This is the more serious failure. If the thermostat is stuck closed, coolant cannot get to the radiator to be cooled. This will cause the engine to overheat quickly. You will see the temperature gauge climb into the red zone. If you notice this, you should pull over and shut off the engine as soon as it is safe to do so to prevent serious engine damage like a blown head gasket. You might also notice coolant leaking from the housing as pressure builds up.
Stuck Open
If the thermostat is stuck open, coolant is always flowing to the radiator. This makes it very hard for the engine to reach its normal operating temperature, especially in cooler weather. Symptoms include the temperature gauge staying on the low end, poor performance from your car's heater, and potentially worse fuel economy. On modern cars, this can trigger a P0128 trouble code, but your classic Studebaker will just show these physical symptoms.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Thermostat
For a vintage vehicle like the 1962-1966 Studebaker Cruiser, finding original "New Old Stock" (NOS) parts is difficult and expensive. Thankfully, modern aftermarket thermostats from reputable brands are high-quality and reliable. They often benefit from better materials and manufacturing than what was available in the 1960s.
When choosing a replacement, the most important factor is the temperature rating. For most Studebaker V8 engines, a 180°F thermostat is a good choice for general use. Some owners in very hot climates might consider a 160°F thermostat, while a 195°F unit can improve heater performance in cold climates. However, running an engine too cool can cause other issues, so 180°F is a safe bet for most owners.
Brand Options
While you might not find a Studebaker-specific review for every brand, you can rely on the general reputation of well-known manufacturers.
- Gates: A highly respected name in cooling system parts, including hoses, water pumps, and thermostats. Gates is often considered a top-tier aftermarket brand that provides quality similar to original equipment.
- Motorad: A common and widely available aftermarket brand that produces reliable, standard replacement thermostats. They are a solid choice for a stock replacement.
- Edelbrock: Known for performance parts. An Edelbrock thermostat is a high-quality option, but may be more than what a stock Studebaker Cruiser needs. They are a good choice if you have other performance cooling system upgrades.
Pro Tip: No matter which brand you choose, it's a good practice to test the new thermostat before installing it. You can do this by placing it in a pot of water on the stove with a thermometer. As the water heats up, you can watch to see that the thermostat opens at its rated temperature.
Cost of Aftermarket Thermostats
| Brand Tier | Typical Price Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Replacement (e.g., Motorad) | $7 - $15 | Good quality for daily driving and stock engines. Meets or exceeds original specifications. |
| Premium Replacement (e.g., Gates) | $10 - $25 | Often features heavier-duty construction. A good choice for reliability and peace of mind. |
| Performance (e.g., Edelbrock) | $20 - $40+ | Designed for high-performance applications. May offer higher flow when open. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are there any recalls for the 1962-1966 Studebaker Cruiser thermostat?
No, there are no official NHTSA recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) specifically for the engine coolant thermostat on the 1962-1966 Studebaker Cruiser. Given the age of the vehicle, any major issues would have been addressed through service campaigns decades ago.
Should I replace the thermostat gasket at the same time?
Yes, absolutely. Always use a new gasket when replacing the thermostat. The old gasket will be compressed and is unlikely to seal properly a second time, leading to coolant leaks. Gaskets are inexpensive and are crucial for a successful repair.
What coolant should I use in my Studebaker?
For a classic car like a Studebaker, it's best to stick with a traditional "green" ethylene glycol coolant. This is the type of coolant the engine was designed for. After replacing the thermostat, it's a good time to flush and refill the entire cooling system.
Can a bad thermostat cause my temperature gauge to be wrong?
A bad thermostat causes a real temperature problem (either too hot or too cold). If you suspect your gauge is reading incorrectly, you can verify the actual engine temperature using an infrared heat gun aimed at the thermostat housing. If the gauge reading is very different from the heat gun reading, the problem may be with the temperature sending unit or the gauge itself, not the thermostat.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 513226 532017 1542838
Standard Temperature: 180°F. Optional Temperatures: 160°F, 170°F. Design: Standard, non-fail-safe.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.