Start off with I have a medium size leak in my radiator, which I keep it pretty full as best as I can. But I have noticed since the leak my temp gauge will sit at 200 like it used to then when I start to drive and come to a stop light or something it will creap up to about 210-220 degrees, then when I start to drive again it will go back down to 200 like it should, and even when I am idle and it goes to 210 or so then it will go back down to 200, so it is not getting to the red line but a little above 200, is this normal? Even in the cold weather it does this. I also can smell the radiator when I park and walk near the engine. Is it normal to go up to 210-220 and then back down rather quickly? I know if it gets in the red I will shut off the car. But My father said it seems normal to go up a bit then back down again. Let me know what you all think.

Thanks,
Ace

Sounds like you have air in your cooling system. You need to fix the leak. The cooling system needs to be a sealed system.

Your body can't keep its temperature constant with a medium blood leak, either.

200 and above isn't bad, but it isn't good either. Mine crept up to 230-240 in August heatwave traffic with no apparent lasting effect.

That rapid fluctuation isn't normal. Just think, that crack opens up more everytime it gets warm, It won't be medium sized for long. Repair the leaks or replace th radiator and check your system for proper levels and air