OK like it says what is a good temp for the car to run at? Cause mine gets almost all the way border line before the t-stat opens up. Just curious.

 

i like the 160* thermostats. always runs real cool.

 

I run at 180.

 

When you state "Border Line". Are you refeering to right before hot?
The perfeered temp for our vehicles of a t-stat is 180 deg. Generally on the freeway or above speeds of 30mph you should be reading alittle under 1/2 on the temp gauge. Now in hot weather and going uphills it should only climb to about 1/2 then drop down after the load is off.
Some things to check before replacing parts.
Need to verify gauge is working correctly. Can take to shop that has infra red hand held
scanner and verify temp.
Make sure water pump belt is not slipping.
Are you running the stock fan clutch?
Do you have 50/50 mix of coolant/water?
Is the radiator cap seal good?
Is the radiator flowing properly. Can be checked at radiator shop by running probe down core to check for blockage.
Is there any debri built up in front of the radiator like bugs/leaves,etc?
Take the t-stat out and inspect for what temp it is and put it in a pot of water and see what temp it starts to open.
As far as runnng a 160 deg t-stat. I do not recommend it.
It may run cold on a straight away or under normal conditions. But in stop and go or uphills
under a load it may overheat.
Remember, the water in the radiator needs to stay there for a specific amount of time to cool down. If it is always circulating thru the block because the t-stat is open it just keeps picking up heat. And although in perfect conditions a cold car will make more Hp. but it will
also burn more fuel. Last tip. After you figure it out. Add a bottle of redlines water wetter to the system. It allows the coolant to do its job more efficently by carrying away the heat
more effectively.

 

RX7Doc is right about the Redline Water Wetter.
Instant 8-10 Degree Drop after adding this Product.
I've used all Redline Products over the years with great results.
6 1st Gens, 3 Jeeps and 1 Dodge Durango.

One thing with the Water Wetter!
Try using a Mixter Of 70-30 of Antifreeze=More Water than Antifreeze and you will bring the Temps down allitle more with the same protection as 50-50.
Just my 4cts worth!
sgieldon
steve