Originally Posted by Exit1965
Not collapsing the bottom hose as far as I can see.

The 230 is from the digital water temp gauge. In 90 degree f weather, it seems it would be unusual to run an engine for 5-7 minutes without reaching 180. At which point hot liquid should begin to flow into the upper radiator hose as long as the thermostat is working, which it is. I think that's why I'm not believing it's just a bad temperature reading.



Gauge senders go bad. I would verify the readings with an IR gun or similar. Harbor Freight has them for cheap.

Did you run it up to temp with the cap off an observe any water flow thru the radiator? Can you try this without a thermometer installed, to eliminate it?