99 sunfire 2.2 90K miles, 3speed auto

I have replaced the thermostat 3 times but the temp guadge will not get passed the lowest point of being "NOrmal" when I first got the car it was always about half way up, It has done it ever since the waterpump went bad and I replaced the thermostat and the waterpump at the same time, all during the winter it wouldnt even get into closed loop!!!!!!!! I had to completly cover the radiator with cardboard.
I was thinking it could be the sensor but during the winter i notice the heat would barly blow warm so i know its running cool.


Also I have a ratteling sound when I am accelerating, it sounds liek i have rocks inside the torque converter!!
I dont know how else to exsplain it.


thanks

have you actually check the temp with a scanner or a some other tool ??


the temp sender might be bad , which would cause the problem your are having

What degree thermostat are you using.

you should have a 180F thermostat

Check the thermostat spring.
Go back and check if the thermostat's spring is facing the motor and not to the radiator.
The thermostat should face up to the motor and it should be closed when its cold.
if the thermostat stays open at all times or it doesn't close all the way, replace it

any smells? check heater core? had same problem when i change thermostat in my z24 i had to open beeder valve on the block had big azz air pocked traped in the block before i did that had the "rock" tumbling sound and wouldnt go above 130 degrees when driving.


friends dont let friends roll stock

if it had an air pocket wouldnt it over heat? It has been like this for about a year now.
the stat is in correctly, im not sure of the degree but its the OEM replacement.