With a performance build, one item that you may never consider to be a performance part is the thermostat. As simple as a thermostat is, it would be hard to believe that there’s anything more to it than opening when it’s warm, and closing when it’s cool. But Tuff Stuff Performance has a new thermostat that is designed with the performance enthusiast in mind.
Tuff Stuff’s Tim Andrews showed us the new thermostat and told us that it flows 50 percent more than a standard thermostat. The built-in by-pass valve allows some coolant to flow through before the engine gets warm, allowing the engine to warm up a little quicker.
Another advantage of this valve is to keep air from getting trapped in the coolant system. The new thermostat is available in 165-, 180-, and 195-degree temperatures for most popular engines.
Tuff Stuff also brought out a new water pump for those who are doing small-block Ford engine swaps, where space might be limited. The Ford Shorty small-block water pump is about 1.5 inches shorter than a standard pump, allowing for more clearance between the engine and the radiator.
Keeping LS swaps in mind, Tuff Stuff also had multi-block LS starters on display. These high-torque starters are fully adjustable and will work on LS1 to LS6 engines.
Well, it’s one wire, you connect a wire from the alternator to the battery and that’s it. -Tim Andrews, Tuff Stuff PerformanceWhile Tuff Stuff offers various finishes for its many components, Andrews said that the stealth black finish has done really well. Not a gloss or flat black finish, it’s a nice in-between color applied to all of its black products. This powder-coated finish is high-temp and resistant to oil and fuel, and other fluids commonly found under the hood. The new as-cast finish on some of its products also provides a unique look. Achieved by placing parts in a tumbler, the cast finish is very popular with builders.
To add another dimension to our interview with Andrews, we asked what the number one question is that his technicians receive, and the answer was surprising. It seems that the one-wire alternator is a subject of discussion, and techs are often asked, “How do you hook it up?” Andrews said, “Well, it’s one wire, you connect a wire from the alternator to the battery, and that’s it. It grounds to the mount.”
To check out the full line of products offered, visit the Tuff Stuff website.
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