temp gauge question Options

[dallas976gc]

ok I have a 97 hatchback.. bought it a little less than a month ago its got the 1.8 with and auto trans.... paid 1000 for it... well the only issue im having so far is
this I start it and let it warm it being im in Michigan and its damn cold here right now lol well it warms up to the normal temp while sitting at an idle but when I start to drive it for a few mins
the temp gauge starts dropping and goes almost all the way to the cold C idk if this is a problem or if its a normal thing for these celicas??? it doesn't seem to effect the way it runs or drives just boggles my mind as ive never seen a car lose temp as your driving? any responses would be greatly appreciated

[richee3]

Your thermostat is stuck open. When you start driving, air blows through the radiator, cooling it off and therefore cooling the engine down more than desired. It's a very cheap and easy fix.

[dallas976gc]

Your thermostat is stuck open. When you start driving, air blows through the radiator, cooling it off and therefore cooling the engine down more than desired. It's a very cheap and easy fix.

hmmm interesting that I never even thought about the thermostat! jeez im simple sometimes lol thanks for the feedback.. hoping to revive this neglected celica is becoming quite the process

[Galcobar]

Just don't forget to get a new thermostat gasket to go along with the new thermostat -- it's not always included. Also, make sure to install the thermostat correctly aligned, with the jiggle valve within a few degrees of the orientation mark on the engine.