Don't get too hung up on tolerances of the gauge readings. There are many
parts with tolerances such as the gauge itself, the thermostat, the gauge
voltage regulator and even the wiring can all contribute to differences in
the gauge reading. As for the difference in the cooling fan cycling there
are a number of factors there also. I would start by replacing the fan
switch first. Keep in mind that there are a number of different
versions-temp setting available for these switches. You may have two
different ones there.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
JRodgers
Sent: Friday, June 22, 2012 11:11 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Radiator Cooling Fan Cycles Frequently

I have two 88 GL's with the 2.1L engines. The cooling fan on my blue van
cycles on and off far more frequently than my red van. The blue van seems to
run just a tiny bit hotter than the red van. I've noticed that the temp
gauge in the Blue van rides over but on  the upper side of the light, while
in the red van it rides over the light but on the lower side. If I put the
two needles together side by side - they would cover the warning light. That
is pretty close - yet Ol' Red's fan does not come on until the needle goes
up a good bit, yet Ol' Blue comes on right at the top of the light. Anyone
have any ideas what this is about?

Thanks,

John  Rodgers