Factory temp gauge

[K5_Fla]

Trying to get a baseline temp reading for my factory temp gauge – here’s the deal….

I had a 160 stat installed – temp gauge would read around 160-170 – all appears pretty accurate. To double check – I used a thermometer in the radiator – it would read lower at 140 ( as expected since this reading is at the radiator)

Now, I have just installed a new 180 stat – the temp gauge now reads 210. Thermometer in the radiator reads 165.

Again – just trying to get a baseline for the factory gauge – it works fine, just seems a little high. Would be safe to say if the thermometer reads 165 – the actual temp at the block would be 180-190 ?

( FYI - I did also install a few new sending units – all the same)

 

[British Slave]

There appears to be more than one of the ceramic things on the back of the gauge. I've never tried it, but possibly changing that out may correct span issues. You have checked to make sure the two nuts holding the ceramic thing are good and snug?

 

[K5_Fla]

UPDATE - I had 3 spare temp gauges .... I tried them one by one. 2 of them read the same as the one that was in truck - around 210. 1 of them ( the only brand new one) reads a little lower - pretty much at 180 - which is what the t stat is .....

I just put the brand new one in the truck...

 

[Cornfield creations]

a 180* thermostat is what is needed for these engines to burn correctly in the cylinder. Too low a temp will cause carbon build up in the cylinders. If you could use a laser temp gauge to shoot the engine at certain places. The temp gauge sending unit in the side of the head is the best place. Intake manifold will give false readings, especially if it's aluminum.