I received this advice:
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Two things
1) temperaure sender -to the gauge
2) temerature sensor -to the ECU
Both are located by the thermostat housing. #1 seems to be a common problem - test it , replace it , Ford part , DIY easy all will be well......while your in there 180* thermostat. And all will be even better!
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95 Mystique MTX - not stock
--------- Both Zetecs
'97 Contour Mtx - stock -
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.......but now I would like to know what the temperature of the stock thermostat is. I have a '98 Contour LX with a 4 cylinder Zetec.
This website has been a great help for me but definitely falls under the category of "The more I learn the less I know".
Thank you for all your help and advice.
-Dan