I have a 180 thermostat in my 351W. I have a manual over-ride for my electric fan so I can turn it on any time I want which I usually do when stuck in traffic or if I am approaching traffic lights after running at highway speeds. By turning on the fan early, I don't have to wait for the engine to get hot enough for the fan to come on.
My Johnex is set up with an electric water pump and an aluminium rad. No over heating problems so far.
By the way, I really like the electric water pump as I can cool the engine after shutting it down simply by turning the key back to "on" and turning on the fan. Works great.
Wayne