is this V6 running hot?

Truth

 

You are aware that just because the gear selector is in D doesn't mean he's in 5th gear. Look at the RPM's, he's probably in 4th with the torque convertor unlocked. That's the real problem. If anything he probably should have dropped to 3rd so it would lock and drop the trans temp. The torque convertor being unlocked is where the heat is coming from.

 

Yes, I was in 4th.. out of habit it goes into drive.. I did all my towing in 4th... so it was in 4th during this photo... I actually put a Sticky Post-it on my dash to remind me when I have the trailer to use 4th ...

 

In my FJ with the UG, I sometimes see 186, but almost always its 192 or 194.

 

I see 186 a lot, but as it gets warmer outside I start to see 190° to 194°. I don't think I've ever seen it climb above 196°. I always thought 240° was as high as you can go without warping the head... is that anywhere close, @Torspd ?

 

That'd be correct.

Concrete jungle traffic. Freeway baking in the sun for hours, then toe - jam traffic. You'll watch those numbers get up there.

Owners with grills which have small perforations(which does restrict air flow), additional coolers, or other devices blocking air flow, will also see increased coolant temps.

The diversion panel will help force air through the rad, https://www.bpfabricating.com/products/05-11-toyota-tacoma-cooling-panel


Relative to its cousin, the 4Runner, the Tacoma is lacking a significant amount of ducting to force the air through. All aspects of the afore mentioned can contribute to higher coolant temps, most noticeably in the summer months.