first, to answer q: I assume no, it turns on at 220 F, but why so high? Did manufacturer intend for my car to run this hot? It seems that 40^* of deviance is just too small of a margin. Any clarification on this would be much appreciated.

second, my situation:

92 rs 3.1 5 spd. 68,000 miles. no a/c, so single fan.
The radiator fan is never on, even when the temp gauge reaches 220 or even goes higher to 240. I flushed coolant today fully, stuck it in neutral, and ran 3000 rpm till gauge reached past 220, then shutoff. Fan never moved. I assumed(from some reading) the fan motor, or relay is bad. Any other possibilities?

And i purchased this two days ago, so the restore now begins.

and do you guys reccomend any specific manual to use as a reference? Haynes? Chilton?

 

I have a Chilton's manual. It's not bad.

As to the other problem. Use the ever beloved search button. Many people have asked and answered your question