Engine Temp Sensor

[Plywood]

That won't give you an accurate reading of the engine temp.
In theory, you're radiator coolant should always be cooler than your engine.

You can get lazer infra red pointer thermometers pretty reasonable these days at places like Harbor Freight. I have found so many uses for mine, just like the digital calipers, well worth adding to the tool collection.

[turbodiesel94]

Even though its in the radiator, isnt 125* still pretty low? The heat is blowing warm, but not hot. The upper radiator hose is cool enough that I can hold onto it with no problem.

[Plywood]

I can't say I've taken a reading that way but I would think 125 would be normal in the winter unless you just climbed a big hill or something.

[turbodiesel94]

So if my thermostat isn't stuck open then it looks like I have a faulty temp sensor and now possibly a faulty cold start switch?

I am slightly confused because the thermostat is supposed to open at what 190-195 so then you'd think the coolant in the system should be very close to that temp? Has anyone else taken a temp reading this way if so what did you find?