1985 Ranger 2.8L V6. I have had recuring overheating problems. I have flushed the system twice, replaced water pump, fan clutch and all hoses. Had the radiator boiled. I have used a 160degree thermostate but it ran too cool, now I put in a 195degree thermostate and it runs too hot. Should I try a 180degree? I have tested them all and they are opening properly. No oil in coolant or coolant in oil and I had it pressure tested so head gaskets are fine. Also, what is the coolant flow to the heater core. My manual diagram does not look the same as my motor. Which heater hose goes to the left input to the core? The one from below by the thermostate or the one from the top. It is not overheating, just hotter than normal, especially at highway speeds or when I'm going uphill. I appreciate any and all ideas, Thanks

 

Umm, are you basing this on the dash stock dash gauge? Also, I would think that engine should be most content with a 180. Not really sure, but I doubt Ford engineers were really pushing for hotter-running engines yet, esp with a German-built engine. Is the coolant mix at 50/50? It might have too much concentrate.