Proper Temp range 88 2.9

Can anyone tell me what the proper running temp range should be on a 1988 2.9 (ranger). I have lost faith in the factory gauge and installed a aftermaket gauge. On a 90 degree day with the air on,running around 65mph. It will run around 200 to 212 degrees. I have a 185 thremostat. Just seems hot to me??

Can anyone tell me what the proper running temp range should be on a 1988 2.9 (ranger). I have lost faith in the factory gauge and installed a aftermaket gauge. On a 90 degree day with the air on,running around 65mph. It will run around 200 to 212 degrees. I have a 185 thremostat. Just seems hot to me??

Anything over 215 is bad. It's is a little hot, but the A/C causes your engine to run a hell of a lot hotter. You can fit a 2 row radiator from a 92-94 Explorer 4.0L with little modification. All you need to do is trim the hoses a little, and the rest is a direct bolt in. 200 is pretty normal, the original thermostat opens @ 195.

Pete