Metal vs Plastic Thermostat?

[Noviastar]

Hi, well 4 days into being a new owner and the main problem crops up. The plastic Thermostat is leaking from just about everywhere. Thanks to the forum for having a lot of discussions on coolant leeks!

Now i've noticed a few places on the internet that a Aluminum thermostat body is available. I'm wondering if people have experience with those. Or do ya just go plastic and replace them more often?

i got the truck for a good deal so i"m not worried spending a bit more on a part that will hopefully last longer. Any advice on the part?

 

[carlthess40]

If it’s a 4.6 ford. The have a updated intake with the cooling tubes and thermostat housing in that’s all aluminum but the intake is still out of plastic

 

[swshawaii]

2001-05 (Gen 1) only came with the 4.0L SOHC V6 engine. Here's a recent t-stat housing thread.
https://www.sporttrac.org/threads/thermostat-housing-why-they-leak-and-permanent-fix.122071/

 

[DILLARD000]

...new owner and the main problem crops up...Thermostat is leaking...advice on the part?

Appreciate prior posts on v6~4.0L~SOHC Plastic TStat Housing problems & fixes.
Swapped in an aluminum Housing 2019Aug on my 2001 ExSportTrac.
No leaks as of 2020Mar & ~5K more miles, knock on plastic!
My full write up with pics
http://2001fordexplorersporttrac.fandom.com/Coolant_ThermoStat_Housing

 

[Todd Z]

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Sells the Austekk Aluminum T stat housing...... Supports the supporters....

 

[Mickey Luis]

Sells the Austekk Aluminum T stat housing...... Supports the supporters....

Todd I just received the 2 Austekk Aluminum T stat housing that I ordered from you. It was very fast and painless making for a great experience. They look beautiful and are well made and additionally they make the original Motorcraft T stat housing look like junk. I am happy I decided on the Austekk. I agree we must "Support the supporters" and therefore choose to patronize you. Thanks again for the excellent service and all your technical advice.