I used to run a t-stat w/ the center knocked out of it. No matter what temp stat I would run it would it would still get hot (200) to quick. The only way to cool it down then was to get the car moving quick. It would still climb w/ the center knocked out when I got stuck sitting through a couple light cylcles, but not as quick. My car has always been the exception to every rule though lol.

I know you've said before you were watching $. But if there is anyway you can get your hands on an aluminum radiator, it's night and day difference.

I have 2 pusher fans in front of my condensor to cool it, the tranny cooler and help out the radiator if needed.