I live in Minnesota where it gets down to single digits this time of year. Does anybody have opinions on blocking the air flow through the grill to help keep the coolant at a warmer temperature? Can this be harmful if the temp gauge still shows in the midrange? thanks
97 850 wagon NA

If your thermostat is working properly - hits 3 0'clock - then you should not need to cover part of the radiator.

Don't forget - you have an electric fan only - this actually blocks some of the air flow if it is not running.

I will mention that some years ago BMW used some sort of extra bypass thermostat and an extra hose in their cooling system because their cars could get too cold in very low temperatures and at high speeds on the autobahn.

Too bad you cannot buy a remote-controlled rubber shade to cover your radiator when you want, like the one in my '59 Saab!
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3 8s & 2 7s 725,000 miles total

James,
You bring back memories when you mentioned the 'shade' in front of the radiator on your SAAB. I had a '60 SAAB with this feature. It had the chain inside the car attached to the dashboard. Worked fine but you had to remember to lower it when the engine was warmed up. It seemed like a simple solution to help warm up the motor. Man, I still miss that car. You added oil to the gas tank as you gassed up-one quart of 2 cycle oil to 8 gallons of gas. No oil changes!!! The good old simple days.
Regards,
Eddie

I would look at replacing thermostat to get heat before blocking front of car. If the thermo is old, you won't get any heat in the temps you describe.
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98 R Wagon, all kinds of goodies 94 854 Sedan some goodies 92 740 Rag Wag

your radiator does not only hold coolant. it also cools your tranny fluid, oil, and if you have a turbo, the intercooler is there too.