Lude Generation

Hi guys - does anyone know where the correct running temperature should be on the coolant temp gauge? Should the first big segment be illuminated only, or should it go up to the middle?

On mine it sits in the middle. Can't remember how many segments it consists of but it's bang in the middle at the 12 o clock position.

if you have the original exhaust manifold it will more than likely sit at the first segment if you have a stainless manifold it will sit halfway

Both my 4g's have original manifolds and temp gauge always sits in the middle. As did my previous 4th (2.3).

all 4ths sit in the middle including the small bar they sit on 3 bars lit
if you have vtec it has too as without 3 bars vtec wont engage

thanks for that - my 2.3 must need a new thermostat then, because only the first 2 bars light up!

my old 2.3 was the same as yours buddy until I changed to a stainless manifold so don't assume its incorrect

Middle- if it gets up to temp nicely & blows hot air from the heater it's much more likely the gauge temp sender in the head has gone out of spec.

I'd try that before a stat

It's not blowing very hot, so I suspect the thermostat. I've ordered a new one from Mr Honda so we'll soon find out.

Meanwhile, does anyone know if it's worth using Honda coolant? They make a big deal about it but is it really anything different? I had a Rover 623 with the same engine and there wasn't any mention of the need to use special coolant in that...

I just use the stuff from my local motor factors. No problems doing that so far.