Thermostat question

[woodsy]

Should I notice a subtle drop in temp on the gauge when my L3300 reaches operating
temp and the thermostat opens ?
Seems that is the way it works in other vehicles I have.
Not seeing any change in the needle on this tractor as it warms up and seems to run on the cool side
which is better than hot but thought I would ask before buying a new one that may not
be needed. Thanks

 

[GreensvilleJay]

could just be a 'lazy' gauge.. other L3300 owners will know.

 

[85Hokie]

One thing about typical diesels - they do run cool, well until you work them hard! However - a cool running diesel is actually a bad thing! AS is an overheated one.

Taking a couple of readings with a infrared thermometer will help you determine what is going on.
A reading at the top neck of the radiator and bottom neck will tell you how "hot" it gets.

an engine should run about 190 F or a little hotter when working hard.

 

[kubotafreak]

You can always test thermostats in hot water. I doubt the blip is discernable on the gauge for temp climb to operating temp. I have gotten one hot and the gauge still shows like normal. They are helpful but not a high quality unit. HOKIE's method will give real readings. As will touching the lower hose to see when it gets hot. (shows the thermostat opened) The temp sensors are in various places on these tractors.

 

[woodsy]

OK , thanks for the insight. New to orange , and a tractor with
a temp gauge that works.