Engine Running Cool

[auto_mran]

Was tooling around this morning around 6:00 a.m. and noticed the temperature on the 96 Grand Voyager never reached normal operating temp, which is right smack dab in the middle between the C and the H. The temp gauge was pegged between C and the midpoint. This puppy normally warms up quick. Outside temp was around 40 degrees with 25+ mph winds. Van has 118,xxx miles. Heater worked OK, but not super hot like when it is fully warmed up. Could this be the thermostat? No coolant leaks or smells either.

[RickMN]

Usually that's the sign of a failing T-stat. A T-stat is supposed to start opening within 10 degrees of its rated temp. If it opens too early and it's cold outside, coolant will never reach full operating temp. Check coolant level first. Make sure there's no air in the system.

[kabhatti]

I would agree with RickMN, it's likely your thermostat.