Hi all
I just bought an 87 240 wagon, with 325000 miles and running strong. Auto with red block engine. The factory temp guage was intermittent so the previous owner installed a VDO aftermarket guage. I am not sure if it is reading right. On a warm day my temp runs 180-195 steady in this range. On a cool day i get 195-205. The coolant is still cool enough to stick a finger in, like warm bath water so I dont think I am overheating. My local auto parts tells me the engine could have come with either a 180 or 195 t-stat. This is my first volvo, any ideas where to start?? Thanks!

 

well, your coolant SHOULD be hot enough to scald the flesh right off your finger. if its not, then its not circulating properly.

I think I'd probably use an IR thermometer and check the temp of the engine block at various places, also the radiator, make sure its reasonably even and doesn't have hot and cold spots. the upper radiator hose coming off the engine should be darn hot once the engine is warmed up, the return hose should be somewhat cooler.