Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Help-Debris in Thermostat

[A-bomb]

I bought this truck used and immediately noticed the egine temp would not increase with driving. After pulling the thermostat I found a large piece of rubber lodged in the thermostat facing away from the engine. I am concerned the rubber cam from somthing inside the cooling system, but do not know where or what. Does any one have any ideas?

 

[DMC]

That is the rubber gasket that is supposed to be in the engine side of the thermostat housing. Take it to Cummins when you get the new thermostat, and they will provide you with a new one. Now is a good time to flush the cooling system.



Its no big deal, it happens I think due to people changing the thermostat and not replacing it.



Good Luck



Don

 

[A-bomb]

DMC,

Thanks for quick reply. However it apprears that the original rubber gasket on both sides of the thermostat were intact. I'm wondering if it was left in the engine during manufacturing?

 

[DMC]

I would have to assume that it was left in the engine. Does the gasket have any part numbers left on it? If not, does it appear to be the same gasket?



I think you will be ok, if the gasket appears to be in one piece. That is the parts that are torn appear to match when held together.



Good Luck



Don

 

[A-bomb]

DMC,

Good question.

I took a photo of some very faded part numbers on the rubber. I do not know if they will show up when I past them in the message.

 

[DMC]

I can't read those numbers, maybe this will help. The cummins part numbers for the thermostat gaskets are 3925466 & 3927305.



You can find many of the part numbers for your engine here, http://dodgeram.org/tech/dsl/Facts/96specs.html#parts



Flush the cooling system and drive it, I think you will be ok.



Good Luck



Don

 

[Joe G.]

My t-stat failed the same way recently. The new one did not have the rubber cover that failed. It's working fine without it.