Okay so my original temp gauge is stuck in the middle so I added an aftermarket temp gauge which reads in the thermostat housing right before where the thermostat sits.. So my question is it was running past 230 degrees to me that seems awfully high. I was cruising on the freeway about 60-65mph and it's probably 70degrees out... If anyone could shed some light on normal operating temps. 84 22R...

 

Id say replace the temp sending unit. My guage was stuck maxed out i replaced the unit and it worked fine.

 

I agree with ojm3. I would also install a new 180 degree thermostat. Modify the new thermostat by removing the little pin in the plate and drill that hole out to 1/4". This modification reduces temperature overshoot on intial warm up.

 

Good thing I live close to work. I'll hit up autozone tomorrow and see what happens when I install those parts.

 

Results with a non-Toyota t-stat may vary. I'd stick with a new Toyota OE one.

 

this. best advise. Test it before you run it too please.

 

listen to these guys I went through 3 thermostats trying to figure this out

 

And just to add to the OEM (22R) thermostat comment:
Toyota's temperature specifications are that the thermostat starts to open at 190° F, then fully opens at 212° F.

 

OEM or drill a hole in aftermarket. U can check ur thermostat by putting it in a pot of boiling water, if it opens tada

 

I got a 180 from autozone and did a complete system flush and new temp sending unit. I've had no overshoot or temp problems. if you burp your system correctly and fill it entirely overshoot wont happen.