I have a 96 3.8 v6 5speed. I know 3.8's are known to blow head gaskets.I changed. Stat to 180 seem to runs as warm as with a 190. New radiator,cap & sending unit.The car did run cooler with a/c but not so much lately.Haven't changed water pump.Not noisy or leaking car runs fine doesn't appezar to have head gasket prob.Is this a water pump prob or am I missing something else?

 

You can always go lower with the stat..like 160 / 170.

My first thought though is was the system burped completely and correctly? Could have air in it.

EDIT: ..Not to sound mean on purpose...but is the the stat installed right side up?..sounds silly I know.

 

I'm not offend often the basics get skipped.Wonder if th plastic cover over fan area is the prob.Its the one that says jmustang.My 96 Tbird had the same engine and it almost always stayed at a .25 of the way up