First, how does the engine coolant circulate when the thermostat is closed? Does it just go from block to interior heater back to block?
Next, is there any way of knowing when the thermostat is open?
Also, if you look at the picture below and the coolant hose with the yellow arrows, I have a secondary coolent temp guage coming off of this line. So, if I see temp on this secondary coolant temp guage does that mean the thermostat has opened? If this is correct, then that means that the thermostat basically never opens all winter long, even on 4hr road trips at 55mph.?? Is this bad or does it not make any difference? Just means I don't get too warm inside.
Next, is there any way of knowing when the thermostat is open?
Also, if you look at the picture below and the coolant hose with the yellow arrows, I have a secondary coolent temp guage coming off of this line. So, if I see temp on this secondary coolant temp guage does that mean the thermostat has opened? If this is correct, then that means that the thermostat basically never opens all winter long, even on 4hr road trips at 55mph.?? Is this bad or does it not make any difference? Just means I don't get too warm inside.