My 2005 GMC Sierra 1500 5.3 heats up when going up steep grade at slower speeds, usually 15-30mph. As soon as I stop the temp goes back down to just under the 210 degree mark on the gauge. I haven't pushed it enough to see if it actually goes fully to the high end of the temp gauge, it started doing this while we were out on vacation so I didn't think that was the time to really test it. I noticed this while going offroad in 4 high and 4 low. The engine has 150k miles on it. Here are the parts I've replaced:
Full coolant flush with Valvoline Green Universal.
OEM Thermostat and Housing
OEM Water Pump
Serpentine Belt, Idle and Tensioner
It doesn't over heat at idle or on the highway. I got the truck from a family member and the radiator has been replaced at some point under 100k miles because of a front end deer collision. I've checked and the fans kick on just fine and seem to be pushing a decent amount of air. I'm guessing there was a good chance they were replaced when the radiator was replaced. Could this be normal?