The angle is the whole point of a waterneck like this. A 45 degree outlet lets the upper radiator hose leave the intake on a gentler sweep, which matters when a taller manifold, a big carburetor or an aftermarket air cleaner has pushed the hose into a hard bend. Polished aluminum also holds up better than a rusting cast housing under the hood of a finished car.

Edelbrock 4817 Waterneck Fitment and Finish:

• 45 degree thermostat housing waterneck in polished aluminum.
• Fits Chevy 4.3L V6 and Chevy V8 engine applications.
• Direct replacement for the factory cast thermostat housing.
• Reuse or replace the thermostat and gasket as needed, since they are not part of this casting.