Thermostat / top operating temperature

[Shanghaihog]

I've read several threads on this site and appreciate the great insight you guys provide. I have a 1986 Bronco II that I've revived from the dead. My question is around expected operating temperature.

Haynes manual says 192 F thermostat fully opens at 226 F (+34 F over opening temp) Is that the temperature to expect when running wide open?

I installed a mechanical temp gauge and a 180 F thermostat. Have seen temp rise to 210-215 F with A/C on when driving in Northern Colorado in afternoons (90+ F). In the morning it runs around 190-195F.

Is this too hot?

Haven't replaced water pump, fan or fan clutch. I did flush the coolant radiator, upgraded transmission fluid radiator, and replaced sensors/gauges.

Thanks, in advance, for your advice.

 

[adsm08]

210-215 is the normal operating temp with the OE thermostat on most engines. I would say that is not too hot with the AC on.

 

[RonD]

+1 ^^^

Thermostats start to open within 2deg of rating, so 192 would open at 190-194, that is the margin of error.
And they are fully open at 15-20deg above rated temp, so 192 would be fully open at 207 to 212degF again margin of error

Back in the '70's SAE and Ford research found that an engine operating with coolant above 195deg would have better fuel economy, less emissions and cleaner oil.
That's when there was a switch from 180 to 190 thermostats