90 Lumina Euro temp gauge

Good day,

Have a 90 lumina euro w/3.1 V6 w/134000km (83000mi). It sat for over a year until I replaced the trannie, now I am using as my commuter to work (50mi/day).

The scale on the temp gauge is 40C(104F) on the bottom and 125C(257F) on the top. That means that the middle of the gauge is 82.5C(180.5F). Once warmed up, the gauge usually reads at between 1/4 and 1/2, translating to about 65C - 72C(152F - 161F).

I usually drive imports, where the temp of the engine is at least 180 once fully warmed. What is the running temperature of my Lumina supposed to be?

The temp doesn't fluctuate at all once warmed up, which kinda rules out sticky thermostat. I am located in Canada, current ambient temperature is

-25C(-13F), and the car is not throwing great heat.

I am thinking of replacing the thermostat with a higher temp (180F), what does everyone recommend? Anyone see any potential problems with doing this? Will I create leaks if there is a weakness in the cooling system?

Thanks Terry in Winterpeg

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