Trying to find a 1 7/8 diameter 180 F thermostat for my 59 AB took a little doing. A larger diameter could always be reduced to the proper diameter but sometimes the chase is the motivator. I found that a 1974 Pinto 2.0L has the correct 1 7/8 diameter which is Gates # 33258, Stant # 13348 and Carquest # CTH 13348. These were drilled with 1/8 diameter air bleed holes and I used a 1 3/4 OD exhaust pipe 3/4 long to hold in place. I used an radiator clamp to hold the exhaust sleeve in place. Pretty simple I think and I'm not very good at loading photos but....
That looks like a nice fit. Will try to remember for next time. I have used SBC thermostats and ground them down to fit. I also used a short piece of radiator hose one size smaller slid inside to hold the thermostat in place. I have not checked lately if the hose piece is doing its job. Neal
The Jalopy Journal
