With a 180 stat you will only see 180 for a few seconds as the t-state opens up, allowing the 200+ engine block temperature to raise the water temp. Same for a 165 through a 190!

The only device on the car capable of lowering the water temperature is the radiator. That is where the major portion of the heat exchange takes place. Think of a thermostat as only a door for the water to fully pass through as the water temp in the block reaches the 180 degree thermostat spring rating. Most thermostats run pretty much wide open.

Want to lower your running temps? Get a higher capacity radiator if they are availiable.

Hey Bill, when are the fans supposed to come on with the stock PCM ? Do the 2000 - 2005'* have single speed or two speed fans ?

i believe one comes on with the temp. sensor, and the other comes on with the A/C on

Both of mine are on low speed when I shut the car off. They both kick on high speed when the A/C is on.

Well, it'* good to hear that others are running close to the same on the guage as I am. I though maybe it was a goofy stat, but I guess that'* not the case.

Thanks guys.

thank you for the clarification