anybody not running one? I ask because when i went to change the housing gasket i can see that the thermostat doesnt clear the gasket around the edges, still runs fine ,just wondering.

Yes, you need a thermostat, especially if running on the street. The engine will take longer to get up to operating temp, and will never get back down to regular operating temp once it heats up. You will just circulate hot coolant non-stop. You need to allow the radiator to do it's job. Your car will be cooking in the California Summer.

I second the first reply, the coolant will cavitate through the housing & will cause it foam... The car will actually run hotter without a stat..

~Scott

The top of the intake should be slightly recessed for the thermostat to sit in ... The you align the gasket or attach the gasket to the thermostat housing and then drop the housing into place ... Some people will use an adhesive to help sealing ... the gasket covering the edges of the thermostat is ok ... I always run with a thermostat ... it helps to regulate engine operating temperature

thanks