How hot is your stock G20 running.

I have a stock 1999 G20 and I think it is running way to hot even though the thermostat shows right in between C and H.

When your car is all warmed pop the hood and use the rod that holds it up, (can someone tell me what is it called, the metal rod that holds the hood up)

In my case the pole as well as the part of the car in front of the radiator it to hot to touch.

Thank you

Also, how long does it take for the engine to cool down enough such that the engine block can be touched and the thermostat should read cold if the car is started again.