temp guage

Thats about 230-240. the optimal is between the O and R. Thats about 200-210.

But the stock gauge sucks. Get an autometer.

If a shop did the install, it seems like it could be on them to get it right.

Eric is right about the stock gauge sucking. And if there's air in the system, it can cause some funky gauge readings until the air is purged.

I'd check temps with another thermometer/gauge.

Good luck.

how do you get all the air out? just burp the system when doing a coolant flush?

just idle the car with the radiator cap off

I've also heard of ppl either:

1) squeezing the upper radiator hose while the car is at idle (with cap off) to squeeze air out

and/or

2) parking the car uphill at an idle and letting it run with the cap off so that the air moves to the top of the system (air will always rise to the top and putting it at an angle allows a good portion of the air pockets to escape.

try doing all 3 if you're bored

Ur problem definately sounds like it could be air in the system. The steam that can get in those pockets can make that lil temp gauge shoot right up.

either way, good luck