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I have an 84 and it won't come up to operating temp. It used to run between 195-200 degrees now it won't get up past 165 degrees and sometimes less. I know one cause could be the thermostat stuck open, but I have another question. I replaced the engine coolant sensor broke it taking off some of the emission stuff, if this is not installed correctly could this be causing the temps to run low. The last thermostat was installed about two years ago.
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Sensors must be installed using a sealant that won't inhibit grounding. If the wrong kind of sealant were used, it might be possible. Another cause is insufficient coolant. Normally, you'd be able to tell that later by the temperature of air coming thru the heater core.
Of course, even new stats can be bad. You'll find it often recommended to submerse a new stat in water (on your stove) with a meat thermometer to verify correct operation.