I've experienced high coolant temps occasionally  - like 3/4 gauge readings.  At highway speeds, the needle is just to the right of the LED, or bit more.  If the van is allowed to idle too long, or see slow city speeds, I'll see the 3/4 reading, but then it seems that it takes forever for the temp to return to it's normal condition.

Was in some slow traffic on the highway, and again the temp climbed, even though it was pretty cool out that night and the slow down wasn't really too bad and no more than 10-15 minutes.

Sometimes it seems like it runs a bit hotter than it should, ie. a needle or more width above the LED, but I've only recently replaced the coolant gauge sensor, so I never had a working gage before - so no history to go on.

The radiator fan does come on, at least it did during state vehicle inspection.  I'm reading that there is a two-stage fan?
I am also suspect of the radiator, but I have no temp gun to check the entrance and exit temps.

Any guidance on trouble shooting appreciated.  The van is at a camp spot and will be fetching it for a 2 1/2 hr trip home next weekend - so I hope I can make it home with no problems - praying for light traffic.

It's a 86, 2.1, no AC, std trans.  Rear heater removed, but hoses are plugged, not joined.

John R
LiMBO