DC controller question, temp seems high

[CarlC]

Don't trust the gauge. I've seen too many of them that are inaccurate. An infrared temp gun or temperature crayon will help, but a quick check would be to monitor the upper radiator hose temp as the car warms up. It will suddenly get hot when the thermostat opens. If the thermostat is opening correctly, it should be approx 180*, and your gauge should read the same.

If the temperature reading is too high you can build a resistor pack to reduce the input voltage to the gauge, but you will need an accurate method to read engine temperature, i.e. IR gun, crayon, etc.