Ford Ranger heat guage reads next to hot

I have a Ford Ranger as well, mine is a 2004, and yes I would be concerned if the gauge read next to the hot mark. I assume this just started happening, or you maybe just bought the truck?

Ford uses two coolants, one is called "gold" and is a gold color. This was used in 2004 and up engines and was reported to last longer than the "green" coolant.

Are there any "check engine" lights on? If so, go to a big box autoparts store and ask them to poll the codes. There may be an underlying reason that has nothing to do with the cooling system (see below)

Here's the possible causes:

1. The thermostat has been replaced with one having a higher temperature rating than the recommended range.
2. The thermostat has become defective (they wear out with age and miles) and needs replaced.
3. The coolant is low in the engine (is the reservoir empty?).
4. The coolant/water mix is too thin (not enough coolant) - this is unlikely as a root cause, unless the ambient air temperature outside the truck is high (above 80 degrees).
5. The engine computer (ECM) is faulty and is running the engine at the incorrect air/fuel ratio.
6. The coolant system has blocked passages caused by previous engine work where the mechanic failed to assure gaskets or permatex did not restrict water passages upon re-assembly.
7. The electric fan is not working - it is not drawing air through the radiator. When the engine is hot the fan should be ON!!! If it isn't then you need to replace the fan or check the power to the fan.
8. The water temp sensor is bad. It doesn't happen often, I would suspect this last.
9. The air flow into the engine is restricted - really really dirty air cleaner filter. You would notice other signs like sluggish throttle response and possibly the engine dying at idle.

Some things happening here..It shouldnt go towards hot..It should run in about the middle..Check ad see if the radiator fins are plugged with dirt,mud or anything..Check your clutch fans that cools the radiator,maybe its not functioning right or not working.Maybe radiators plugged.These are just some things that could be causing the problem..Hotter temperatures leads to more problems,computer will read to hot and mess with all the sensors in the motor and will make your engine light come on...

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