540 temp gage not reading in middle

[garrettpier]

I am not sure why but suddenly-- well now that is is cold-- the 540 doesn't seem to be getting to the preferred temp. I can only guess the t-stat is stuck open. Does that sound right? I have also found a tiny drip of coolant coming from some where and dripping down to the oil pan.
Any Ideas would be appreciated.

The radiator is new as well as hoses and t-stat housing.

[M Quick]

Probably a stuck open thermostat yes.
And maybe it leaks around the waterpump housing?

[K Fox]

Probably a stuck open thermostat yes.
And maybe it leaks around the waterpump housing?

I second both of these things. And don't feel bad, you're not the only one posting about low running temps now that the weather has turned. Just get a new thermostat and you'll be happy. As for the leak, you can either plan to replace the water pump gasket if you think it's bad enough to worry about and the pump is good, or maybe think about replacing the pump as peace of mind if you're not sure when it was last done. Good luck.

Fox

[garrettpier]

thanks guys. i guess it's back to wrenching.

[NorCalZman]

car not making it to operating temp was my clue something was up. Had it checked out and my tstat was stuck open AND the water pump blade had broken off. Definitely check out the water pump.