Temp Gague on 1998 Olds

[Mark72]

My son owns a 1999 Olds and o own a 1998. Both have the V6 3800. His gague ru s right dead center at approx 180. My 199i Olds runs at 200. Is this normal?

 

[Snagglefoot]

Could be a variance in the temperature sensor or slight variance or different thermostats. I would get my hands on a laser pointed infrared electronic thermometer gun they sell at hardware stores. Go for a drive, stop where it's safe, pop the hood and take a reading at the thermostat housing. Repeat with the other car. Compare the gage to the temp gun reading to verify. If everything checks out, I would verify the cooling fan is working and consider putting in a new 180 deg thermostat in the car that is at 200 deg.

 

[Mark72]

That makes sense. I meant to say mine is a 1998 olds...and his is a 1999.

 

[Chris142]

You should put a scanner on each car. See what temp each is actually running vs indicated temp. If either is running under 195 it needs a new thermostat.

 

[Snagglefoot]

Just to ease any confusion I'm not sure what temps the 98 and 99 Olds 3800 are supposed to run at so if someone is sure about it please confirm. Then one or the other can be adjusted accordingly with a new thermostat, assuming the cooling fan is operating properly. Personally, I like to let the the older cars run at a slightly cooler temp.

 

[clinebarger]

Right around 200°F is normal operating temp for just about every Injected GM engine.

 

[Inspecktor]

Our 2001 LeSabre runs 198 on level ground highway speed.

 

[WyrTwister]

I replaced the tstat on our 2006 Buick Lacrosse 3.8 , when I was replacing hoses , belt , plastic coolant elbows , coolant , etc. . Best I remember , I uses a Stant tstat , 190F , or there abouts . Have been impressed , how quickly the engine warms up .

I think , this one .

https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p...5854stn/11261638-P?searchTerm=thermostat

I see it is a 195F tstat . Do not forget the gasket .

https://shop.advanceautoparts.com/p...6892acd/11585028-P?searchTerm=thermostat