Temperature Gauge Fluctuations

[DCDoggie]

Hello,
I have an Explorer XLT 1996 and I have been experiencing temperature gauge spikes when the car first warms up. Once it reaches normal operating temperature, the gauge will shoot up to about 3/4's of the way, then back down to 1/2 way (or center). It will remain there for the most part, although at stop lights it will ocassionally creep up a little higher, then once the car is in motion it will back down again to normal. I feel as though the car is running hot, but I am not 100% sure.
I had the radiator valve replaced about 4 months ago when the problem was more serious. Has anyone else experienced this and can you offer any advice?
Thanks, DCDoggie

 

[BrooklynBay]

Welcome to this forum! When you say "radiator valve", are you referring to the thermostat?

 

[explorerguy89]

and how is your fan clutch? it sounds like its going because from sound of it its not engaging when your idling and when your moving its not needed so temp goes down