Excessive idle and slow traffic...
Never gets too hot when im cruising...(I dont run on the track either). for instance, Last weekend i went for a 30 min drive in 90 degree weather (Summer time in Pennsylvania) and had no issues. Pulled up to the garage and let it idle for 3-5 min before pulling in...temp increases by 20 degrees (not overheating) but the increased running temp starts to create issues with idle. you can hear the car struggle to idle. The worst case scenario for this is: I am out driving around and get stuck in slow traffic or excessive lights. While the engine heats up, im trying to keep it from staling, as sometimes i cant get it restarted hot...so long story short I limit when and where i drive it because i don't want to get stuck.
I've leared alot by reading other threads about the correct process for purging air from the system....going to try that this weekend before i do any radiator swaps.
What got me thinking about the radiator was that i had a small leak a few years ago, and it went away on its own...???... but it still makes me think i am working on borrowed time.
Correct thermostat - YES.