V8 not coming up to temperature

Apologies in advance as I have another thread that explains the origins of the problem, but thought I would separate it out and ask this question. I am not after a sign off that all is ok and safe, just guidance from you guys.

What I would like to know is:
Is it ok to drive on a longish trip with the temperature not coming up to normal. It stays in the blue and maxes out at the top of blue.

Rad was changed, other than that all is fine. Thermostat was fine too before I swapped out the rad.

Previous thread:
http://www.landyzone.co.uk/lz/f10/radiator-leak-damaged-condenser-confused-183720-3.html


Thanks in advance.
James

Yes.

Do a compression test, could be early indications of HGF. Have you checked to make sure you're not loosing any water. Try re-bleeding the system.

Apart from that, if it isn't getting hot should be O.K. but be wary!

Great, thanks. That is if you say it is ok to drive like this.

I have read comments on other forums suggesting excess wear and cat problems due to rich mixture, but if I take it easy I hoped it was ok anyway.

It is a low compression engine but worth a check.
It has never overheated, well since I have had it.

No mayo in the oil filler cap.

Not losing water no, all is ok since the rad change (which had a slight leak).

Top hose is firm but not hard.
Top of rad is hot, bottom is just warm, thermostat warm.

Cheers