fluctuating temperatures

[TAngell]

I have a 2000 3500 5 spd diesel cab & chassis with a flat bed. When pulling on the highway the temperture gauge fluctuates between 180 and 200-210 range. Is this normal? The truck has less than 1000 miles on it. I had a 1995 with the 12-valve that did that as well, but I have been told that was normal for them. I thought the fluctuation problem was solved with the 24-valve engines.

 

[MrFixit]

My 2001 6spd seems to stay just a little under 190. When I work it (towing) it climbs a tad over 190 then the fan comes on and she drops quick. I have heard there are thermostat problems on some of these, there is a TSB I believe at this site

http://dodgeram.org/tech/tsb/1998/07_08_98.htm

but it appears to be on the 99. I thought I saw somewhere were there was a bad batch of thermostats put out by DC.



Good luck.