Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) engine runs too cool, fan cut out?

[GreggNoble]

hi, here in Newfoundland canada we have lots of cold weather,and i have had problem this winter getting enought heat fast enough, so i put a large piece of cardboard right over my radiator to keep it from cooling off,but the engine is still running too cool not even near half ways on the guage, does these trucks have problems with the rad fans not cutting out or similar problem?

this would also affect the horsepower too if its in all the time.

 

[ChrisOlson]

Gregg

usaly the cardboard works, stupid Question but do you put the cardboard between the radiator and the inter cooler,

Chris

 

[GreggNoble]

yea for sure chris, but shouldn`t the fan stop on a cold day when the truck is just started? i wish i had controll over it like my Freightliner tractor does. cut out the fan in the hill and gain the extra horse power.

 

[FourBarR]

What is the temperature gauge saying? If it is reading low maybe you need a new thermostat. Remove it and see if its stuck open. You can test it by putting it in boiling water to see if it opens . Hope this helps.

 

[GreggNoble]

put a new stat in it last winter should be fine, engine still runs too cold. with a cold engine could you put your hand on the fan and stop it? i know thats how it is with some engines but mine would cut your hand off ha ha

 

[TPetroff]

You definitely don't want to stick your hand in the fan to stop it.

Freightliner uses an air operated clutch more than likely?

Your Ram uses a Viscous Clutch. Filled with fluid. It's not designed to totally stop or start.

The best thing for you would be Make sure the Thermostat is operating properly,there was a service bulletin on them,for an upgrade.

Also the fan clutch could be bad,but it will never completely stop,but should be just coasting when cold.

I have seen them go both ways lock up or not engage when they go bad.

And then have a weather front made or maybe find one.

There are some made for some models through Geno's.

I run a "snap on" weather front on all my Diesels.

Personally a weather front is a Must Have for colder Climates.

TGP

 

[Andersonville]

I think your thermostat is stuck open.

 

[BHanna]

I think your thermostat is stuck open.

That would be the first thing I'd check too.

 

[GreggNoble]

Thanks guys, its spring here now and the temperatures are rising & snow is melting but next fall i will defenatly have to get the engine running warmer. thanks