Operating Temp. yes it is ~ It won't hurt it as long as it gets no hotter but there's little margin for error there . Have you peered into the radiator when it's running ? . there should be a goodly current of coolant going past , the color is important too ~ if it's not translucent there's rust or crud in it that will hinder it's ability to transfer heat away . Dollar Stores usually have Candy or Turkey Thermometers with a long probe , place this in the open radiator neck when hot to see what the real coolant temp . is . Have you tested the radiator for clogs ? easy to do @ home . Easy to clean 'em out too , better than the Radiator Shop does .
thanks guys. I think I will pick up a thermometer as suggested. I did find out the thermostat was a 195f. changed to 180f. I didn't see a lot of movement inside the rad but water does flow through from rad cap to bottom rad hose opening ok. I don't think the original temp gauge is 100 percent accurate but i' m glad it was there to warn me. it is running a bit cooler now.
