'95 EX, gauge shows about 3/8 the way up, tried a new stat when I got it, but still doesn't seem to have very good heat output. You can leave it on high for 25 mins and still not get hot.

 

First thing; open the hood, go to the passenger side firewall, where the heater hoses go into the cabin there is a valve in the hose, be sure it is opening fully when the temp dial is turned up.
If the temp dial is broken you won't turn the shaft. Pull the **** off and check it.

There is also a service bulletin about the teeth on the temp control gear shaft jumping out of synch. That keeps the intermediate cable from extending all the way.

 

My dial works, this summer I had to spray lube the gears behind the console to get the flappers to work correctly for the ac to work right, as far as I can tell the valve is opening all the way.

 

Alright using a heat sensor, I have 180 at the thermo housing, only 120 going into the firewall, and 115 coming out the vents. Still think that should be suficient, but see about 150 on other vechicles.