Jeff,
There are probably some variables in the
instrumentation, sending units etc. I have an
80 degree thermostat. My gauge temperature hand is
usually just right below the LED warming lamp
at operating temp. The ambient temperature has been
around 50 degrees here.
With the 87 degree thermostat in the heat of summer
with temps in the high 90's my temp gauge hand would be between 3/4 and 7/8
distance toward hot side of gauge.
I really freak out when engines are running
hotter than I want them to.  I installed the
80 degree thermostat to try it out.  The heaters
run somewhat cooler now but they're still plenty
warm enough for me. It's typically a 40 degree
winter here.
I don't think my radiator fan has come on one
time since I put the 80 degree thermostat in.
I guess if I lived in a colder climate I'd probably left
the 87 degree in.

Jerry
KY 88 GL Bus-ter

-----Original Message-----
From: Jeff Stewart [mailto:fonman4277@earthlink.net]
Sent: Monday, January 08, 2007 9:01 PM
To: Jerry
Subject: Re: Love My Vanagon!

Hi Jerry,
     I am running the 80 degree thermostat. Is 1/4 up the gauge normal for
this thermostat?     Jeff