Mat,
Check your owners manual, I believe it say that is normal. 
Ken Lewis
http://neksiwel.20m.com/
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Mathieu Bertrand 
  To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM 
  Sent: Sunday, August 28, 2005 2:16 PM
  Subject: [VANAGON] Engine running hot

  My 87 2.1l is running hot. By hot I mean that the temp. needle is just above the led. When I go up hills I have to put the front heater on to keep the needle around the led. 

  How can I tell if it is the thermostat, waterpump, air in the system or even a faulty temp sensor or gauge?
  Is it OK to run at this temperature? My 86 2.1l never ran hot. 

  Thanks

  Mat