[jhv48]

I always thought that the original purpose of the thermostat was to recycle warm water through the engine so that it would reach optimal operating temperature quicker. Once that temp was reached, the thermostat would slowly open to increase flow through the radiator to maintain that temp.

Therefore, eliminating the thermostat would only cause the engine to take longer to reach its normal operating temperature.

Is my thinking off?

Now, if you want to solve your problem, jack up the front of your car as high as it will go. Beg borrow or steal a Lisle coolant filler funnel kit. Remove radiator cap, insert funnel, add coolant, start engine and watch the magic. Air bubbles will emerge as your thermostat opens. Once the bubbles stop, turn off engine. Make sure you only put enough coolant in the funnel to cover the tip, as when you shut off the engine, boiling coolant will want to exit your engine and will fill the funnel.
Let cool, then remove funnel and put radiator cap back on. You do have a coolant recovery system in place don't you?