Hi guys, just finished up a major project on my 97 B3500 with a 5.2, replaced the timing chain, water pump, thermostat {195 degrees ) ,fan clutch, all new hoses, and a new plenum and gasket , manifold gaskets ,hoses, and lots more of new parts,,, ,the project went great except for a few bolts that didn't want to come out, so I took it for a test drive after all that, and it runs perfectly, so smooth,, ,I couldn't be more happy, but it seems to run a little warmer than before, it got up to 196 on the highway, and about 190 in the city, I was checking on my scanguage as I drove around town. I am thinking that maybe the old thermostat which was a 195 also. maybe it was opening up early as it got older, On the dash guage its up to about 3/4 the way up, as before it was a only showing 2/3 up the temp. dial.....or could the temp dial be showing a faulty reading,,,I believe 195 is a proper temperature to be at, but at what temp should I get worried if it gets too high?? I read that 220 is the danger area, I just want this van to live forever, I am so happy that I can do a lot of the work myself, and also a big thanks to every one on this site, I really did a lot of studying and searching on this site for info before I started,, thanks again for all the info,,,take care,,,,,,

 

Peppster66 how many miles do you have on your van? It appears that you did a great job on replacing the various parts. My 2001 with 98000 miles also shows the temp at 195 most all the time. And it will raise to almost 210 after driving a 300 or 400 miles on the highway and then getting caught in some bumper to bumper driving in a city when traveling. Also did you change the radiator. Again great job.

 

If it's a 195 t-stat why are you worried? I could see how over 210 under normal driving conditions would be a cause for concern, but with it hovering around 195 I wouldn't give it a second thought.

 

thanks for your replies, In have just around 200,000 miles on it, and hope to go much longer still, seems to be running perfectly,,,,thanks again,,,take care,,,