Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) No Heat?

[CWebster]

On the way in to work today, through the blinding snow, engine temp never got above 140 degrees. I am going to replace the thermostat and see if that is the problem, but if anybody knows of another cause or solution, I would appreciate the info.



Chris Webster

 

[isb360]

As you may be aware, our Cummins Turbo Diesels are very thermally efficient and therefore there isn't a lot of waste heat to warm coolant and thus the heater core. Cold weather exacerbates the condition. A couple of thoughts/suggestions:



a) Plug in the truck at night -- will speed warming up of the truck and get warm air into the cabin much sooner



b) Block a small portion (no larger than 1/3 total surface area) of the radiator which will mimic the "winter fronts" that the big rigs run in cold conditions.



We've had quite a cold blast from Old Man Winter here in New England the past couple of weeks, with nightly temperatures well below zero and highs during the day in single digits. Rarely in these conditions does my temp needle get to the "190" mark and if I'm stopped idling for a minute, it drops quickly to 160-ish.



Tim

 

[CWebster]

Thanks Tim. I have never had this problem before, that's what has me concerned. I have about a 45 min. commute to work and usually about half way my temp is close to 19o... . not so this morning. I am going to swap the 'stat this afternoon and see if it helps any.



Chris

 

[mberry]

Not trying to beat a dead horse here, but changing the thermostat will not change anything from what you described. The winter front is about the only thing you can do to get more heat in the engine and cab once you are on the move.



I have left my house with the temp close to 190 and by the time I get to work 25 miles later, the temp isn't even registering on the gauge. I don't have winter fronts on mine yet since this is an extreme example.

 

[CWebster]

Well, this happened over night. Every winter I have had the truck I have never had a problem getting up to temp. I have another 2000 CTD and it is not having a problem either. The temp gets to just over 140 (just off of the mark) and stays there. So, something has changed between yesterday and today... I'm thinking possibly a stat that stays open and flowing. I appreciate the input and I will post if I find out the problem.