On Mon, 25 Aug 2003, Motlagh, John N [GMG] wrote:

> With all this chatter about running hot, does anyone have insight on
> what the cockpit coolant temp indicator should read?  Mine consistently
> reads just above the overheat light, then the radiator fan kicks in, I
> know the whole system works because I had a split hose and the indicator
> when up, the light and buzzer came on.

It's not a calibrated device.  How high it reads depends partly on your
engine temp, partly on what version of the temperature sender you have
installed, partly on how your particular gauge ended up, and partly on how
corroded the connectors are.  VW claims anywhere below the white line is
"normal".  What you need to do is get used to where yours runs, so you
know when it's running hotter than usual.  Adding a calibrated,
aftermarket gauge can help your piece of mind if you're concerned.

David Brodbeck, N8SRE
'82 Diesel Westfalia
'94 Honda Civic Si