As Sean alluded it isn't quite that simple. For instance, running at that lower temperature will also affect the fuel system as the lower temperature will make the ECM think the engine is running cold and increase the fuel mix in the attempt to get it warmer. It will also likely set thermostat codes if it opens too soon as the engine will not reach operating temperature fast enough. Another reason for the higher temperature is to provide better cooling as the higher temperature also creates a higher system pressure so the coolant can fill all the passages in the system and prevent hot spots with the thin wall castings.
To make the PCM operate at the lower temperatures would require remapping the fuel system, timing, and engine controls as well as removing some of the error codes to avoid problems.
As for it doing damage, those engines regularly turn about 200,000 as the 3.8 is one of the better engines.
Saturday, May 28th, 2022 AT 6:08 PM