"Not" overheating

[sjjones]

94 X 4.0 with auto tranny.

I hear a lot about overheating. In my case, I have neve had the temperature needle even up to half way mark. I think I'd have to run with extremely low coolant to ever get it hot.

Car was purchased slightly used in Arizona. Is it possible I have a special cooling system, heavy duty? How can I tell? Many thanks.

 

[bndrulez]

I bought my Navajo used, with 156K, the only time the needle has gone remotely close to the half was when the upper radiator hose sprung a leak. By the way, it's from AZ too.

 

[Mbrooks420]

It's possible your thermostat is stuck open. I'd try and replace it. They run better when the thermostat functions correctly.

 

[bndrulez]

My trucks runs surprisingly well considering age, and my abuse.

 

[Alec]

Staying below half is ok and perfectly normal. About 1/3 from "C" is about perfect.

 

[sjjones]

Thanks for the info. Probably should have mentioned I live in Alaska.

The car makes decent heat, but I considered replacing the 192 stock stat with a hotter one. A mechanic friend of mine talked me out of putting in a higher temp stat advising that any overheating was a sure way to crack the heads on the 1st generation Xs.