Heating and Engine Operating Temp Issues

[buckneked7719]

my car does the exact same thing it has the stock radiator.it doesnt seem to leak.but it takes forever to warm up.and the heater doesnt seem to get that hot even at full operating temp.i also notice the fluctuating temp.i was also thinking of replacing the thermostat.i also noticed what appears to be a vacume operated valve inline on the heater hose.t hink it might control the flow to the heater core im going to try that as well .if you find a solution to your problem please post. im tired of freezing to death any help would be appreciated