2.9 heat problem

[86ranger4x4owner]

Okay so I have a 88 ranger with the 2.9l and when it's a hot day it runs a litle over normal at highway speeds and on cold days it doesn't warm all the way up and the temp guage barely moves. It has a different radiator or just a new one and a electric fan. The coolant is full to the top of radiator and the temp sending unit is brand new so what could cause it to heat up to much and not heat up enough what it be the thermostat? And if so what temp do I need?

 

[okietheranger]

I would make sure the thermostat is even there and if not install a OEM temp one.

 

[jhammel85]

195* Thermostat. I would replace that and then see if it keeps doing it.

Sometimes my gauge is at the bottom of normal and on some days it's between A and L in normal. Never goes higher than that...

Best thing to do is install a mechanical temp gauge. The electronic dash gauge isn't so great.

 

[86ranger4x4owner]

ok i will it has a three guage pod with a temperature gauge but it broke so i bought a new sending unit for the stock one and hooked it back up but i would think it would read better than it does.