Thermostat removal and stuff

[My85Chevy]

Hey guys,

Replacing the carb on my 1985 C10 Silverado.  I have the 305 motor.  Figured why everything is out of the way I would change the thermostat. I need to remove it to give it a good flush anyway.  First, 180 or 195 degree?  I hear arguments both ways.  Should you drill the 3/32 hole in the top?  Second, on the drivers side I have a bracket that's bolted on that must be moved to get the thermostat housing off.  I can get it to come up off the bolt stud but can't get it to move out of the way.  There's a metal line that runs from it all the way up over the alternator to the passenger side where it connects to some rubber hose.  What's the secret to getting this bracket out of the way so I can get the thermostat out?  Any help would be greatly appreciated!

[Captain Swampy]

I would run the 180 Tstat unless you'll drive it in winter in a northern state. I personally drill a hole in the flange of my thermostats. Is it an air conditioning line? A picture would help.

[My85Chevy]

Thanks.  Well I live in Missouri so I think 180 will be fine.  Is it a 3/32 bit that you use?  I think I figured out this line.  If I remove that extending piece off the bracket above the alternator and disconnect this metal pipe and the rubber hoses it should lift out of the way.  Still not sure what it is for.  I sent some pictures anyway. 

[My85Chevy]

For anyone wondering that is an air injection pipe...  not sure what it does but that's what was in the way.