Not reaching operating temperature

1997 NISSAN MAXIMA
347,000 MILES • 3.0L • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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T.ESTELEE86
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  • 1 POST
Just replaced radiator now it will not go above quarter mark on temperature gauge unless idling for long time. My husband said he took the thermostat out and put it back in. I see where it needs replaced as a whole unit also so maybe that messed it up?? Thermostat? or what else could it be?
May 9, 2020 at 11:44 AM
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DANNY L
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I'm Danny.

It is always recommended to replace the thermostat when the cooling system is being worked on and or mileage.It is also possible when replacing it wasn't installed correctly.There is a jiggle valve used as a reference to how being correctly installed.Here is a tutorial showing what is involved on replacing a thermostat:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-thermostat

I've attached picture instructions below including jiggle valve location for your Maxima below.Hope this helps and thanks for using 2CarPros.
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May 9, 2020 at 6:23 PM