the temp gauge goes all the up to between 220 and 260 before it starts to level off, but sometimes i have to put the defrosters on, (to kick on of the fans on) to keep it from overheating. would this be a bad thermostat? i just replaced the fan switch.
thanks
chris

 

You mean you turn on the A/C, not the defroster, to turn the fan on right?

Did you replace the switch in the passenger side of the block? If so what temp is it suppose to turn on?

220º is normal for our cars and is what they run from the factory. 260º is kind of high though.

 

Don't trust the factory gauge, it could be off by a ****load. Hook a scan tool up and check what the coolant temp sensor is reading when the gauge says 260, it could be way off. Mine is, I mean it's way off. Also, some dual fan setups kick on at 234 degrees. My 92 Z28 turns the fans on at 234, but the gauge reads in the red!!!
Also, let the car idle and keep an eye on the fans. When they kick on, take a look at your gauge to get an idea of what is normal and what is really overheating.

 

my mechanic had this temperature gun thing and i pointed it at my block when the guage was high, and it was only at 170 or around there, i think it is my guage. whats a scan tool?