Does anyone have a problem getting up to operating temperature of 210? I've had the truck for a couple months and my buddy changed the thermostat last summer before I bought it, but it never gets above 140ish maybe.

 

I have the exact same problem, never worried about it because I'd rather it run cooler than warmer, but I am not sure if this is a problem

 

I was reading about my jeep and a couple guys mentioned that its stuck in "cold loop" and the computer thinks its trying to warm up and keeps dumping in extra fuel, which could explain my drop from 11 to 9mpg... Also winter blend gas.

 

At 102,000 miles, I'm still running the factory thermostat on my 99 Ram V-10. my temperature gage doesn't have a lot of numbers on it and one thing I know: if I push it up to 210 while pulling my 5th wheel camper, the fan clutch comes on with a roar. I don't think you want to be running at 210 degrees. IMHO, I think 190 degrees is hot enough. At 140 in winter, the heater has a problem keeping the cab warm enough, and the engine oil doesn't get hot enough to boil the condensed water out of the crankcase oil. In any case, check with your nearest Dodge dealers parts counter.

 

Check the T stat to see if it opens in boiling water. Overcooling can ruin plugs and waste fuel. I just had this problem last month. When I removed the housing I saw the T stat had broken and was stuck open. After I replaced it I saw the temp gauge go up to normal, but a rough idle. Had to change plugs...now all is fine. I heard Magnums like to run hot anyways...best of luck

 

where did you get your thermostat? Napa or the dealer? and do these engines like factory plugs the best like other chrysler motors?

 

I got the t stat and gasket right from NAPA. Be careful of the bolts holding the housing on as the intake is aluminum. Mine froze and broke so I had to drill them and insert new bolts. I use Champion plugs, factory style replacement and they work fine. I have used the newer style like crossfire, x fire, or whatever in the past; but they burnt out two ignition coils. Factory replacements are best for these engines...

 

Get to drive the old girl for the first time in a month tomorrow!

 

I own a 97 v10 8.0L magnum 6" lift w/toyo 35x12.50x18 I have completely rebuilt the front end from power steering gear box,pitman arm,track bar,inner and outter tie rods,ball joints wheel hub assemblies,,new steering stabilizer,front drive line,sway bar,link rod ends w/heim joints,and a steering support bracket had it alligned but still it wants to pull a little.I am going to replace suspension control arms and the little u-joints in the steering column not sure what more can be done to solve this any ideas?

 

I've done my share of front end replacement on mine and it has improved, but I still have to replace the control arms, which I reckon, are the problem for the slight pull (when going over slight bumps at speed). Those bushings on my control arm get a lot of weathering down there...
If you ever replace yours, please let us know what brand you get.