if my motor is actually at 210 but my gauge says 170 will it keep it in open loop

 

or closed whichever I dont want it in

 

no, if you coolant is actually at the right temp, then if you temp sensor is working then it will tell the computer to change modes. the one you are talking about is the temp sending unit, they are different sensors. but i would check the temp with a thermostat and make sure it is reaching ideal tempature

 

closed loop is what you want that is when all sensors are heated up enough and comp is reading them

 

The OP has a '96, which is OBD-II, which will enter "closed loop" within seconds after start-up or as soon as the heated upstream O2 sensor reaches operating temp. A scan tool will verify when the system enters closed loop which is well before coolant temp reaches normal.