When cruising at normal speed and normal rpm the temperature gauge is at the unlabeld mark between 100 and 220F. Is this 160F (the middle between 100 and 220) or is it not a linear scale?
At idle or slow traffic the gauge stays at just a little under 220F.
I have a new 185F thermostat that i tested before installing and did a thorough flush of the cooling system.
Everything is stock except for a polyester hood with fake scoops that are covered.
Outside ambient temperature is around 55F here.
Am i ok or am i running cold when cruising?

 

The scale isn't linear, and those gauges don't normally read accurately. I recently replaced the temperature sending unit for the gauge, and found that around 200*F (actual), the gauge read 220*F. You should try some datalogging if you have the equipment to see what temperature the ECM is reading, or buy one of those radiator caps that have the temp gauge on them. You are probably running around the 180-185*F mark (cruising), even though the gauge isn't quite showing that. It's a little cool for optimum fuel efficiency, but better for power and keeping those engine components cooler. Many on here have run 160*F and like that temp, so your 185*F should be fine.

 

Yeah my gauge doesn't read right at all. Its a good 15-20*F off also.

 

I installed a new 215* fan switch. Assuming the switch is accurate, because it's new, then my gauge is well off because it doesn't turn on until the gauge is reading on the hash between 220* and the red line when it turns on.