Right..

[vw-john]

sorted out the starting problem i had, turns out it was the temp sender, replaced it today. however my problem is that my car never seems to reach 90 degrees its optimum is 70 and always has been, unless im sitting in traffic after a fair thrashing when it will go up to 90 and stay there till i move again. has anyone else got this problem? i dont think it affects the running too much, if at all but it just annoys me 
cheers

[dragongreengolfgti]

Its more than likely the thermostat sticking open a little bit so id replace it and the flange for good measure i done mine after same problem sorted it out hope that helps

[vw-john]

ah, i have been looking at other posts and i cant find one for a 1.8 gl. do you know wether the thermostat is easily accesible like the 1.4s or a b!tch like the gtis?

[dragongreengolfgti]

I have no idea mate i didn't know yours wasn't a gti but im guessing its probably the same sort of thing as the gti im sure its the same kind of block  im sure someone will be along to correct me though i used to have a 1.8 driver but never had any trouble with the thermostat sorry. If your good at diy on cars you will soon be able to tell anyway 

[harlemex]

good to hear you sorted the starting issue. Looks like i will have to get myself a sender. Keep us updated...

[vw-john]

yeah, as much as i'd love one. well i suppose ill have to do some rooting around my engine bay then. and harlemex i found out mine was broke by unplugging it then trying to start the car and it will start fine, will tick over pretty high though. when you plug it back in the idle will be rough again

[vw-john]

anyone know where my thermostat is located?

[thai-wronghorse]

inside the water pump housing below the alternator.

[vw-john]

sh!te, just as i feared

[al_bey]

I changed my water pump and had the thermostat out. It really isn't that difficult mate.