Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) 2002 temp guage fluctuation

[hondatec]

from the day i bought my 02 the temp guage jumps to 190 back down to around 180. i just have not owned a vehicle that has done this. is this normal becuase my 93 cummins was normal. i really dont understand why it doesnt run one temp all the time. anybody that can explain this i would be most grateful. thank you.

 

[PBJ2500CTD]

Both my former 98. 5 had and current 02 have this issue. I have changed t-stats and it still happens. I figure as long as the needle stays in the "normal" area all is good.
My observation is:
1. It occasionally occurs from cold to warm - overshooting the norm briefly, then settling down to 190*, and
2. About 15 to 30 seconds after a moderately heavy pull up a moderate incline.

Radiator is clean inside and out; no obstructions in or around other finned devices.

 

[SeanM]

Mine started fluctuating from 180 to 200. I changed my t stat and I'm back at 190 again

 

[PBJ2500CTD]

SeanM, Where did you get your t-stat? Mine were all Mopar.

 

[blacksheepdiesel]

Get a Cummins t-stat.

Godspeed,
Trent

 

[ata]

If you get one from Cummins make sure you get part no. 3934373 ($30) this is the one for the Dodge Cummins. Good LUCK on getting one that will not fluctuate to some degree. If you go to Dodge to get one part no. 5014568AA ($50) It will have the Cummins part no. on the black band.

 

[Missouri Mule]

The jump from 180/190 to 140 was caused by the t-stat opening all the way and dumping hot coolant into oversized radiator which caused the temp to drop quickly.

Cummins came out with revised t-stat that opened more slowly. You have the same size radiator has the 12 valves but your t-stat should be different.

 

[PBJ2500CTD]

The number on the old t-stat in my '02 was 3937171 (190* mfg 08-01-00 - ??). The part number for the new and improved t-stat from Mopar, according to the dealer, is 05015708AB. It acts like all the others - no difference. I'll stop by the Cummins shop and compare P/N's on the t-stat itself.
Thanks guys for the info.

 

[SeanM]

The number on the old t-stat in my '02 was 3937171 (190* mfg 08-01-00 - ??). The part number for the new and improved t-stat from Mopar, according to the dealer, is 05015708AB. It acts like all the others - no difference. I'll stop by the Cummins shop and compare P/N's on the t-stat itself.

Thanks guys for the info.

I just got one from napa p/n THM 375190 it was like $34