Engine temperature??? 1986 325i soft top

[theflop]

Hi,
I drive my e30 to work (17 miles) and back every day and often more. The temperature gage gets to a quarter and stays around there even if I am driving fast reving highly for 3 miles or so it stays the same. Is that normal? It has once nearly reached the middle when sat in traffic for 30 mins or so. It seems ok but seems odd??
cheers, Leyton

[GDBN]

Why does it seem odd ?
It is perfectly normal behaviour. When you drive normally the air flow over the radiator is enough to cool the engine. When you sit in traffic, with no air flow, then once the temp gets a bit higher the fan kicks in - forcing air over the radiator.

G

[Brianmoooore]

Exactly as it should do. Why do you think it's odd?

[theflop]

Good stuff,
Just that more modern cars I have owned in the past would sit right in the middle even whendriving normal.

cheers, Leyton

[Barnz]

Wish mine did that.... seems to sit at half way on gauge (in traffic) and it went to 3/4 once, but I know I have a fan coupling to change!

[Brianmoooore]

Just that more modern cars I have owned in the past would sit right in the middle even whendriving normal.

the E30 is a bit more sophisticated than 'modern' (non BMW) cars.
The whole non-coloured centre section of the gauge only covers a few degrees from side to side.
You wouldn't even notice the difference in needle position on another car with this difference in temperature.

[Jesus325iTouring]

Perfectamondo dude

[theflop]

merci beaucoup monsieurs