I have run 180 degree water temp (i use 160 degree thermostats) for a long time, not just in my TJ, but in my GC with 4.0, riding lawn mower, Dodge dakota with 4.7 and etc. My gas mileage stayed the same and no CEL from stock water temp (210-215) and current 180 degree temp. This indicates to me the system is running in closed loop. I could add a chip, advance the timing, and get better gas mileage. (will be soon) There have been a LOT of benefits to running 180 water temp: oil changes stretched out to every 10,000 miles, hoses and vacuum lines and belts dont wear out nearly as fast; never any pinging; A/C performs far better; no more blown head gaskets. Heat is still great in the winter, because i always run electric fans (flex a lite) which allow the engine to warm up quickly and i find that 180 degree water is plenty hot enough even for 20 degrees below.