I have a 1993 Toyota Mini Motorhome with a 3VZ-E. The VIN according to Toyota is an 1993 4Runner. It’s well maintained, has about 60,000 miles and runs great. Last year, the engine temp sensor for the gauge stopped working and I replaced it with an OEM sensor from Toyota. At that time I started the engine, watched the temperature rise and then shut it down. The Motorhome sat for 6 months and earlier this year I replaced the timing belt, water pump, thermostat, radiator and coolant. All parts were OEM Toyota and Asin from Yotashop and the dealer. It runs great, however the temp gauge reads warmer for some reason. Before the service above, the gauge rose about 1/3 and stayed there uphill and downhill, around town and on the freeway. Now the gauge reads 1/2 when warmed up and when climbing hills on the freeway, the gauge moves up to the red, but never touches it. It has not overheated. I’m puzzled and would appreciate any thoughts. Thanks!!

 

We're the thermostats the same temperature rating?
If it had a 170 in it before and now it has a 195, the gauge will read higher.

 

Thank you for the reply. The replacement thermostat was identical to the original 180 degree, both Toyota-branded OEM.

 

Thanks for the reply. Both new and old are 180-degree thermostats.