A 180?f T stat runs under 1/4 on my 87, a 190?f is about 30% during cool weather.

Most will get to 1/2 on the gauge during hot weather. The thermostat opens over a temperature range so it may be cracking open at 190? and fully open at 212? (from what I measuread a few years ago).

If your new thermostat is a cooler one that what you took out you will lose some fuel efficancy. Heavy duty thermostats do seem to work better and more consistantly, I have had problems with the inexpensive ones, Stant HD seems good.

Kevin C

87 Turbo Intercooled Raider, roller cam, torsen rear diff, LSD front diff, lockup auto with modified converter, V6 brakes, low transfer case gears...