Radiator cap 16lbs where from?

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B Lindler

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I've read several posts where users mentioned changing out the 20 lbs psi radiator cap for a 16 lbs psi cap to try and ward off the radiator cracking. I went by several auto stores yesterday and today and of course, they just looked up my 08 ST XLT 4.0 engine and tried to give me the 20 lbs cap. They said they couldn't figure out which 16 lbs cap would fit. If anyone on here changed their radiator cap, which model vehicle has a 16lbs psi radiator cap that will work on my 08?



Thanks for any help or advice. There is nothing wrong with my radiator that I know of, just one of those preventative measures I've read on here and have on my todo list..
 
Just for grins. I would like to know the tech behind 16lb cap and the 20lb cap. From gen1 to the gen2 4.0L.

Inquiring minds need to know....:bwahaha:
 
I ain't telling.....



Scott, could it be. It was cheaper for ford to keep one type of cap on the asyembly line...:bwahaha:
 
All kidding aside. I've never been able to dig up an official reason for the switch. There is a difference in the cooling systems however. Up until, and to include model year 2005, the ST used a normal thermal fan clutch. 2007 brought the introduction of the electric fan clutch and also the change to a 20 psi cap. I'm guessing that with the introduction of the electric fan clutch they are able control the coolant temp more precisely and that change is what warranted the the switch to a 20 psi cap. This is just a guess on my part, I could be completely off base here.
 
My son's 2000 Mustang V6 uses a 16 lb cap that fits the Trac so that's what I told the parts store I needed. My Trac did get a cracked radiator that was replaced on warranty so that's when i switched caps. A 20 lb cap will raise the boiling point so i assume Ford wants the engine to run hotter, although the thermostat is still a 195* unit. I've had no issues since. :haveabeer:
 

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