Engine Thermostat, Low Temperature (begins opening at 160 deg F)

[Dr. Acula]

Originally Posted by JFP in PA

The 9A1 engines do not use a simple thermostat like the M96/97, they have a more sophisticated "thermal management system" which is electronically controlled. Would they benefit from running a bit cooler, sure, but how to do it becomes the issue.

Good info to know, thanks! Along those same lines, then, do you have an opinion on the third radiator kit for the non-PDK 9A1 cars?

I have a 2011 Boxster S and I monitor the coolant temp with an OBD-2 Ultragauge. The coolant temps in this car vary as much as 20 degrees just driving around town, It freaks me out because my Toyotas don't vary near that much.

[Gilles]

Originally Posted by Dr. Acula

Good info to know, thanks! Along those same lines, then, do you have an opinion on the third radiator kit for the non-PDK 9A1 cars?

I have a 2011 Boxster S and I monitor the coolant temp with an OBD-2 Ultragauge. The coolant temps in this car vary as much as 20 degrees just driving around town, It freaks me out because my Toyotas don't vary near that much.

Why din't you install the center radiator (from a PDK) car?
It is a simple and affordable option

[Dr. Acula]

Originally Posted by Gilles

Why din't you install the center radiator (from a PDK) car?
It is a simple and affordable option

Yep, that's exactly what I asked about. I figured I'd ask the experts before dropping $400 (plus shipping) on the kit.

[Gilles]

Originally Posted by Dr. Acula

Yep, that's exactly what I asked about. I figured I'd ask the experts before dropping $400 (plus shipping) on the kit.

The $400 will seem very fair when you complete the installation and realize that it looks like it came that way from the factory, you'll enjoy installing it since every component fits perfect!

Edit:

PS, you will also need to cut open the molded slots in your inner fenders, to allow the hot air from the center radiator to exit ahead of the front wheels, a Dremel tool does wonders on the black plastic parts, or if you prefer, you can buy the inner fenders for a PDK car, that comes with the slots already open and just swap them up.

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by Dr. Acula

Good info to know, thanks! Along those same lines, then, do you have an opinion on the third radiator kit for the non-PDK 9A1 cars?

I have a 2011 Boxster S and I monitor the coolant temp with an OBD-2 Ultragauge. The coolant temps in this car vary as much as 20 degrees just driving around town, It freaks me out because my Toyotas don't vary near that much.

Because the third radiator adds considerable volume to the cooling system, it tends to dampen thermal swings. Things still change, just not as quickly.