Engine temp gauge

[aero3113]

My engine temp gauge only reads cold and hot. My needle stays at about a 1/4 in. away or less from the indicated "HOT". I run a 180 deg. stat., is this normal?What temp would this be if the gauge was numbered?

[55 Fargo]

I would say the hot end would be 212, so if your 3/4 the way, you are probably at 180 or so, should be okay, the 160 mark should be arounf 1/2 maybe, justa guess though...........Fred ps running the engine at 180, is probably better than at 160

[aero3113]

Is a 180 stat. ok to run in the summer months?

[55 Fargo]

If your cooling system is in good order,why not. A 180 stat, opens at about 176 to 182, and should be fully open around 200.

If you are running at 180 to 185 in the summer heat and don't go over 200 on real hot days or driving slow in traffic, should be good to go.

If you are not comfortable with that go with a 160, which opens at 157 to 162 and is fully open around 180.

I think it's better for these engines to operate at around the 180 mark or so, rather than say 155 to 160, which is a little on the cool side................Fred

[oldmopar]

You could use a thermometer to measure the temp of the coolant at different points on the gauge then you will have a approximate idea of what your gauge is reading

Ed

[brian hood]

One of those laser temp gauges is a cheap way to tell if your t stat is working. Simply point it at the housing, pull the trigger and measure the temp. They also have many other uses for automotive applications. They cost about 50 to 60 bucks.

Brian