302 Temperature
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 315
Likes: 0
From: Plymouth, MI
If I remember correctly...when my truck is up to temperature the needle is between the "O" and the "R" in "NORMAL" or the "R" and "M". Should be in that area. Keep in mind it is 30-40 degrees here right now in southeast michigan. Good luck.
Sam
Sam
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 371
Likes: 1
From: Wetaskiwin, Alberta
Geez Sam - you better be careful that you don't wear your truck out before it's time!! SIGH - must be nice to have a low miler like that one!
I have dual temp guages in my truck, the OEM plus an aftermarket Hastings. When the Hastings guage is at 195 degrees the OEM is just between the "O" and the "R".
Mr. jonathandennell I would say that you definitely have a t-stat issue. I will also suggest to you that you replace your rad cap at the same time you R&R the t-stat.
Cheers!
Mike
I have dual temp guages in my truck, the OEM plus an aftermarket Hastings. When the Hastings guage is at 195 degrees the OEM is just between the "O" and the "R".
Mr. jonathandennell I would say that you definitely have a t-stat issue. I will also suggest to you that you replace your rad cap at the same time you R&R the t-stat.
Cheers!
Mike
Freshman User
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 46
Likes: 0
From: Virginia
My 1990 302 also runs on the chilly side of normal, even during the middle of July here in VA, sitting in traffic with the A/C blasting! Doesn't sound right to me either, but I have never had an overheating problem. Oh, great, I just jinxed myself. 
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 315
Likes: 0
From: Plymouth, MI
MRL123, Yeah I got lucky when I found this one. I find them all the time. Found one not too long ago in Virginia. It was a F-150 4x4 Reg Cab Short Styleside Box....had never seen rain or even a car wash....had 3000 miles on it. Wish I had the money...I would have got it. Anyways, yeah I am trying to keep the miles low. Good luck so far. Knock on wood...haha.
Sam
Sam
