temperature guage problem

[Rod M.]

With the key on, the temperature guage needle sets on the left hand side as it should be. As the engine warms up the needle starts moving to the right as it should. after few minutes the needle moves all the way over to red. After about 10 minutes the needle returns to left of center where it should be. I am not sure what could cause this to happen. It appears like the thermostat is slow to open, however I am not sure that this is the case. Before I start replacing everything to do with the temp guage I would like to know if anyone has had a similiar problem and how did they fixed it.
Thanks for any feedback.
Rod

[Domenic T.]

Re: temperature guage problem

Rod,
If in fact you are sure the temp is actually getting warmer, I would go with the thermostat because it is not expensive and probably the culprit.

DOM

[Rich G.]

Re: temperature guage problem

My 66 SB runs up about 30 degrees over the themostat temp and then drops back to normal when (I assume) the thermostat opens. My 68 BB doesn't do that. Never thought about that before. Sending units are in very different places on the two cars. I guess I would change the thermostat first, if this just started. If you can get your hands on an IR thermometer, that would confirm or deny that your gauge is good.

Rich

[Rod M.]

Re: temperature guage problem

Thanks for the feedback. I think that i will change the thermosat since it is a easy fix.

[Stuart F.]

Re: temperature guage problem

I have seen where there have been air pockets or bubbles formed in a cooling system that would get super heated and form right around where the sending unit is. Then, until that air gets purged, the temp reading is way high. It usually is an indication that you need a good flush - radiator and block.

Stu Fox