Normal - Temperature reading????

Since day 1 (last March 30-2009), the rad temperature needle of my van is "consistantly" above the 1/2 way mark. Just one needle thickness above the 1/2 way mark on its guage. And, its needle is consistantly in the same mark (which is a good thing). No too sure if its guage needle position is normal (against other 3.9L vans), or if its runner hoother then others. If wondering, my other GM vehicle has temp guage needle that flexes between 1/4 and slightly under 1/2 way mark. But never over its 1/2 way mark.

What's the normal temperature reading of your 3.9L van???? Just wondering...

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I used to pay attention to that so-called gauge until I discovered reading another forum that it is little more than an idiot light. It looks good but essentially its readings are cold, warm and you cooked your engine. My van's "temperature gauge" parks itself exactly where yours and I suspect they all do, a CH above the halfway mark.

Supposedly this prevents people doing what you have just done, comparing the readings between vehicles then running to the dealers with unwarranted concerns. What it also prevents is the ability to spot trouble before it might be too late to avoid major damage, which happens to be the purpose of instrumentation. Now, with the exception of the fuel level gauge and speedometer, which for most drivers are the only two thing of interest, the others are mere decoration. Install an aftermarket temperature gauge, a real one.

Thanks for your reply "Noam Zane". Much appreciated.

Especially your satement of "My van's "temperature gauge" parks itself exactly where yours and I suspect they all do, a CH above the halfway mark."

I'll leave my van's temp guage "as is" - in its original factory format.

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