Auto Parts: Camaro RS 1990 V8 (overheating problem), camaro rs, problem water

Question
My camaro is able to run for a while, but soon starts to overheat (idle and on the road). The fan does not kick on until about 230, right before it starts to red bar. Also I can turn on the A/C (but I have no evaporator at the moment) and the fan will kick on automatically. Is it a temp relay problem, water pump, or something else entirely? I am not a mechanic and know very little about how everything works, so I would appreciate it if you kept the terminology to a understandable level.

Thank you.

Answer
    Sounds like the fan system is working properly.  The most likely and simplest fault is that the thermostat is not opening all the way.  So, the first thing I would do is replace the thermostat.  The part is less than ten bucks, plus a tube of gasket sealer if you don't already have some (no silicone, just regular gasket cement).  The job is fairly easy, it's right up front.  You might want to go ahead and replace the upper hose while you're at it, since it has to come off to do the job.  If that doesn't do it, then I'd suspect the radiator.  Look in from the front of the car and make sure that the fins aren't all clogged up with road crud.  If they are, just get under the hood with a hose and flush it out from the back.  If it still acts up, then you are going to want to replace the radiator.  Look in the yellow pages for a "Radiator Warehouse" or some such similar wholesale-to-the-trade place.  They will sell to anyone, so don't hesitate to call them.  If there is more than one choice for your vehicle, buy the one with the most rows of tubes.  Somewhere in here you should find that your problem is solved.