Anthony,

1) Engine Temp below 80C is not normal and probably not great for the engine. Probably just the thermostat. I had the same thing happen with mine about two years ago.

2) & 3) I wouldn't worry too much about shift points. These engines are pretty indestructible and have over-rev protection on the IP. You can over-rev by down-sifhting. The higher the engine RPM the better as far as keeping the engine clean.

Have fun - these cars are some of the most reliable on the road. I wish I could get mine going again, but I don't think it is economically sensible to fix it. Still fighting with the other drivers insurance company with the vehicles value. (I will never do business with "The Hartford") Hope this helps.

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D. Blake
86 300SDL 340K (for sale)
83 300SD 205K (gone)
06 Chevy K3500 LBZ CCLB 50K
94 Chevy K2500 6.5L TD 250K (gone)