I have a stock 70 Malibu and was wondering if anybody knows if the "hot" light for the temp is supposed to come on when you turn the ignition to verify that it is working.

No it will not. Only if you go above the set temp. If you want to test it drive your car for a bit and the shut the car off. Wait a minute or two and turn the key to the ign positioin. My car get hot enough to set the light off.

If a car has "idiot" lights, I always thought the lights would come on when the ignition switch is in the "on" position. Once the car started, the lights would go off, providing there is no problem with the system they are monitoring. That way you have an easy way to check for any burned out bulbs.

If a car has "idiot" lights, I always thought the lights would come on when the ignition switch is in the "on" position. Once the car started, the lights would go off, providing there is no problem with the system they are monitoring. That way you have an easy way to check for any burned out bulbs.

This was my understanding also.

The temp light should come on in the "crank" position
as a bulb check.

Jeff,Mark,and Lee have it correct.
Mike