Cool Coolant - Gauge Seems To Read Low

[pontiacgp]

Dumb question, maybe?
Is it ok to drive for a short while with the t stat opening too soon? Is there a chance of excessive carbon buildup fro the engine running cool?

It's not a dumb question, I wouldn't worry too much about a carbon build up if it for a short period. Oil needs to get to a certain temperature to lubricate properly. You always read that starting a car is hard on a car till it gets to operating temperatures, the reason for that is the oil hasn't reached the temperature it needs to work. The oil is about 10° hotter than your coolant temperature so I like to run my coolant at 190° to 210°

 

[ed1948]

I lifted the hood today after a 20 minute drive. With the engine off there was bubbling into the coolant tank from the hose that connects to the rad cap fitting. Could that be due to the coolant tank is low on fluid and it sucked air into the system. When cold, the level in the tank is an inch below the 'cold level' line.
I guess it's time to top up and watch the Lawrence Welk Show or listen to Don Ho. Some of you'se older dudes may catch my 'bubbles' reference.