4.3LX not getting g up to Temp

[Gkelly]

Hello everyone,
Just bought 97 1900sr2 with a 4.3lx
It hasn't been getting up to running temperature. So i checked the thermostat and there wasn't one (Imagine that) so I installed a new one took it out today and still doesn't come off 100. The Guage does work. The water temp in river was at 64
Any ideas would be helpful
Thanks

[Phillbo]

Are you sure the gauge is accurate?

[Gkelly]

I'm pretty sure, When I ran it today after 30 min or so you could literally put your hands any where on the motor and just warm.i will get new gauge tomorrow and verify.

[mmwjr]

Use a handheld IR temp sensor to confirm the engine temperature. I doubt the gauge is bad but the sender may be.

[Gkelly]

I will try that next
Thanks