What is normal for the temp gauge to be at? (V8 gas engines)

[BMW325iLRDiscoI]

I would like to know what you guys show at the engine temperature gauge.... mid way... 3/4 of the gauge... 1/4 of the gauge?

Mine takes 10 mins or more before it moves a little and after driving (city streets) for ~20 mins, it will be at 1/4 (outside temperature is now at 68°F (20°C).

Is this normal?

[s.stirley]

No, sounds like the 'stat is stuck open (or more likely not there !) Mine was a little like that until I changed it ..

Mind you, the big viscous fan doesn't help - when I dropped mine in favour of an electric one the gauge came up much quicker, but still doesn't get over 1/3 when you're cruising along. Will get nice and warm when going very slowly though if the fan doesn't run.

Si

[LandyV8]

mine stays about half way on the gauge but does take about 10 mins or so to get there. i have the viscous fan and twin electrics if i need them when off road because she gets quite hot sometimes.

[CDNrover]

Mine is slightly below half. Takes about 5 minutes to get there but I'm guessing it's because tuned for Canadian weather. Warm-up cycles are shorter.

[si_guru]

Mine takes 2 miles to reach halfway and stays there... Apart from when it creeps up 1mm in traffic - just to "worry" you.

[BMW325iLRDiscoI]

Thanks for your reply guys!

Next time the weather is a little nicer, I will replace the T-stat.

I hate the *loud* noise the engine makes when the mechanical fan is fast (meaning... when the clutch in it allows the fan to spin fast) and some mention that no big change on temperature with out it. So... how many of you have their engine without the mechanical fan? My Rover is not for off road and currently I have no plans of pulling big loads... its use is exclusively for street-city use (wife's vehicle)... during summer, we are at 100-110°F outside temp.

Under these conditions, do you all think it is safe to take it-off (the mechanical fan) and have the engine cool down only with the auxiliary electrical fan?

[LandyV8]

Thanks for your reply guys!

Next time the weather is a little nicer, I will replace the T-stat.

I hate the *loud* noise the engine makes when the mechanical fan is fast (meaning... when the clutch in it allows the fan to spin fast) and some mention that no big change on temperature with out it. So... how many of you have their engine without the mechanical fan? My Rover is not for off road and currently I have no plans of pulling big loads... its use is exclusively for street-city use (wife's vehicle)... during summer, we are at 100-110°F outside temp.

Under these conditions, do you all think it is safe to take it-off (the mechanical fan) and have the engine cool down only with the auxiliary electrical fan?It is a common upgrade to remove the viscous fan and fit a electric fan. They do have some advantages like...

Around 8.5% fuel saving
Increased performance
Less pollution
Quieter running
Extra cooling
Replacement for existing fan Have a look here http://www.kenlowe.com/fans/consumers/index.html there are other manufactures but this is just one that sprigs to mind. I have a 2nd hand set fitted to mine from a Citroen BX turbo D. Does the job.