Chrysler Repair: 2003 Town and Country:runs cold/poor heat, upper radiator hose, cold weather

Question
Very little heat in very cold weather (20 degrees). Temp gauge is on low after 2 hours on interstate. Heat is on highest setting and is not warmer than 65 or so degrees and is not blowing out. This problem just started.

Answer
Hi Bryan,
That seems to be a problem with the coolant not being allowed to warmup to the operating temp that is most efficient for the engine, much less the heating system. I would wonder if the thermostat is either stuck open or opening at too low a temperature. It is located in the housing to which the upper radiator hose is attached on the upper area of the engine (that applies to all engines that could be in your van). The only other possibility is that the fans are running, which they shouldn't be, so let me know if that is the case.
The solution then would be to replace the thermostat. Choose one with a opening temp of about 195 degrees.
If by 'low' on the temp gauge you mean more that 1/3 scale, then you would want to try recalibrating the temp door on the air distribution housing under the dash. Let me know whether you have the automatic temp or manual temp control so I can tell you how to initiate that procedure.
Roland