Optimium engine temp?

[Longhorn Man]

i am pretty sure that 180 degree is what came in these trucks.
In old cars, and modified engines, the cooling systems aren't as consistant as they are in new cars. Becouse of this, when the guage hits 200, we start to get a little scared, at 210, we look at the guage more than the road in front of us, at 220, we pull over and start looking at what could be going on.
The reality, 220 isn't as bad as we think. I highly recomend not aiming for that temp, and not ignoring it if your needle gets there, but, it isn't going to damage things.
I learned a few things on the links and quotes above. I used to be a 160 degree t-stat guy. I've known better for a long time, but I have to admit, I had no idea the wear was double when the engine is that cool.