I just installed an autometer water temp gauge (mechanical), tapped into the upper radiator hose by way of autometer #2282. I went driving around tonight, cool weather out, and noticed my running temperatures ranged from about 195-205. After the drive, I came home and let it idle. Temps creeped up slowly to 220, then the fan kicked on and it dropped back to 205.

Not sure what would be considered normal here... thanks!

 

Bump

 

it depends on where your picking up the temp from. the water will be the hottest as it exits the head on its way to the radiator.

 

Upper radiator hose

 

that is the hottest spot in the system and autometer guages are not the most accurate guages, so most likely its fine.

keep in mind you thermostat is at the back of the motor where it opens around 180degrees. try installing your guage on the engine side of the theromstat of if you have engine management, check the oem readings.

 

Wouldn't you want to get a reading nearest to the head in case of a blown headgasket? I'd want to see the quickest response from the gauge so I can shut everything down in time.

 

the responce time of a water temp guage is super latent anyway. they are not like exposed element fast responding thermocouples (i.e. EGT's). it takes many seconds for the sensor to catch-up with the actual temp rise of the liquid.