I think that the temp issue is over argued online. Anyone want to measure BTU absorbtion into the coolant and BTU shedding by the radiator?
The more interesting and useful thing to measure are internal engine temps esp. critical metal components/areas .
Good observations and post .
You just about have it.
Yes , you increase the available heat throw of the radiator/heater core , etc . Much more importantly ,you increase the " throw " by the heads , block , IM , etc .
The main reason why this is more important is because this is where 70% ( typical ) of the waste heat not accounted for by the exhaust system is transferred ie "engine thermal radiation "
not radiator/HC ( 30% ) .
The fundamental concept here that no one seems to get is that although your coolant temp remains constant the fluid is transferring more heat from the metal within the engine (esp cylinder heads) to outside the engine via increased efficiency of metal to liquid to metal to air by the engine itself - never mind what the thermostat and radiator and fan are doing .
This is exactly why NYE ,you , me , and anybody else whose paying attention notices things such as less knock etc with no other system change ,ie same coolant temp .
I don't think its over discussed correctly - but I will agree it is over discussed incorrectly .
Slightly oversimplified - with water wetter ;
more/faster heat in/ more/faster heat out - same/
lower coolant temp.