thanks for all the suggestions guys, even with a new temp guage installed it says about 178 -180, and infared at the stat housing varies between 168 and 179. The stat does open in a pot of hot water, could it be everything is working? there could definately be inconsistencies with the infared the new temp guage could be off? and the stat does open. Coving the rad helps it heat up quiker, I think the only thing left is drill the .125" hole in the stat flange or pull the rad. I think I'll drill the hole first, thanks again for all the help .
Scott
