Hi newbie here with a question. My 1997 lumina 3,1 engine temp will barely get into normal operating range {on the dashboard gage) consequently the heater is not to hot.The mileage is 105,000 and I'm thinking I might meed to replace the thermostat? What degree 180 or 195 I understand there are two different temps. for these? Any suggestions as to why I'm not getting a good operating temp. would someone tell me how or why to 'bleed' the water hose (I guess it is to get air out)....sorry for being stupid.
THANKS

195 is probably the stock temp. I'd suggest sticking with that.

Yep, sounds like a bad thermostat. And like Bill said, 195* If you go with the 180* it will work, but your fans are set to come on at higher temps, and that would need to be changed in the tune. Not worth the trouble or expense.

195* is good. To bleed the system, there are two bleeder screws.



Leave these open when you are filling the radiator. When one starts to leak, close it. Then the other one when it bleeds.

Thanks for the help....I had a bad radiator cap...should have gotten back sooner

Good to hear it was a easy fix. Thanks for letting us know.

Can someone tell me if the radiator cap needs to be the kind with the 'arrows' on the top indicating or allowing the coolant to flow back and forth from the reservoir?
signed: 'stuped' and thanks

as long as the cap is the right one for your car and you remember that you have two clicks or put it on till it stops and push down and tighten one more time. there is nothing in there that aligns they just want you to make sure its on all the way

O.K. Two Clicks.....gotta reach a little for that second click... Wondered why my coolant slowly disappeared 'somewhere'...thank you