I have a 1986 Caprice Classic Brougham with the 305. I just changed the oil, put in new antifreze, and put a 195 thermostat in it (thinkin that the old one was bad). When I took the old stat out it was a 180, but I figured that someone had put it in for cooler running purposes. Neways, now the car seems to steam or smoke a bit from the engine bay. Is that bad? and what could cause it? I still have the old stat just in case, any help would be nice, Thanks

I'm not sure why, but my car did that too with a 195 thermostat along with a stumble/hesitation. After putting in a 180, those problems seemed to nearly dissappear. I can't explain it, but I guess these engines like to run at a cooler temperature.

hey, thanks for the info pete, that means i'll have to go get a 180 sometime then. Is there pics or sound clips newhere of your car? it sounds like a nice one

Yeah, heres a few pics, and the link leads to a recording of the engine. Its not in any of the pictures, but I recenly put the small chrome push bars on the front bumper.

Exhaust Sound (http://www.freewebs.com/petea/exhaustsound.MP3)

http://www.freewebs.com/petea/cleancaprice.JPG

http://www.freewebs.com/petea/capriceburnout.JPG

that sounds just like my car.
let me guess... 2 flowmaster 40's? :smokin:

you got yourself a very nice car there, I had to get my exhaust fixed for inspection so I threw a thrush turbo on it w/o the tailpipe. not bad sounding in my opinion. How much does a muffler like those flowmaster's cost?

Yes it is a flowmaster 40 series. I got mine online for 50 bucks with shipping (eBay).