A suggestion ... don't run the engine very long without a thermostat ...
even better, don't run without a thermostat at all. One of the thermostat's
function I've been told is to ensure a relatively consistent engine
temperature preventing parts warp etc.. Having said that, I had a thermostat
fail closed on a Toyota. I removed it and drove home from ... interestingly
enough Johnstown near where you're at ... to Ottawa without any apparent
problems.

I am going to try it this weekend with no thermostat and see what
happens. Stay tuned ...