Engine running hot, please help

1983 1.8 8v gti

I am going to view a car tommorow, the owner says the water temp runs hot and that the water temp gauge when warmed up stays just below the overheating zone, but the engine runs fine. He says he has replaced the water temp sensor and nothing changed and the VW garage said all was fine too and the engine was running at normal temp. :?

FYI car has only done about 1k in last 5 years so has been sitting about not been used a lot.

Is it normal for these engines to run hot? or could it be more sinister? head gasket? i have had a search a not come up with much

Im a newb sorry  :roll:


Please help, thanks!      

no doubt ill be corrected as i dont know mush about cars/engines but maybe thermostate

as above mate the best way to check tho is turn the car on and let it warm up. when the fan comes on, feel the radiator and if it goes cold really quick after the fan comes on the water isnt getting to the radiator, if this is the case then 100% thermostat mate



or… no water

Thanks guys  

I will let you know how I get on.