Engine/Transmission (1994 - 1998) Overheating issues..

[jtadysak]

Well,



Lately ive been running hotter then usual. . Normal operating temps are about 150-160*, im seeing 190 in a 8 mile trip, sometimes more, I went ahead and flushed the radiator out to change the fluid, and check for oil. .



I flushed the radiator. . Doesnt look as if there is any oil in it. . Not black like I thought, like a light brown almost. .



Anyway, flushed and chemical clenesed her out completly, and put new fluid in it. . Now its overheating worse, over 190*. .



Anyhow. . I saw the highest temp yesterday bieng 220-230 and pulled over immediatly, got out, checked the radiator fluid, and its luke warm and wasnt steaming like a truck at over 200* should, while my heater hoses are boiling hot. . I belive that means the T-Stat is not opening. . correct me if im wrong. .



Now, what do you think? and where can I get one of these Tstats besides cummins which is about 150 miles away. . would dodge or napa stock such a part? Anyone know the part number or have any other things I should replace while tearing down, gaskets, seals???



For awhile I thought it was the clutch fan, and I still think it has something to do with it. . Because before it would climb to 190-200 and then all of the sudden slam down to 160. . Either the fan kicked in, or the Tstat opened. . Cant hear the fan because of the 6" stacks. . if the t-stat doesnt work, im going to upgrade to some flex-lites.



Thanks!

-Jordan

 

[EKlem]

It sounds to me like you are having problems with the t-stat. If the radiator is only luke warm and the engine is real warm, the t-stat hasn't opened.



The cycling that you are talking about with the temp gauge is caused by the t-stat opening. The coolant in the radiator is much colder so your gauge drops real fast when that coolant is introduced to the engine. It climbs more slowly because it takes time to heat up that coolant again.



I know napa has a t-stat for these trucks but I don't know whether it is any good. My cummins dealer ships stuff and it usually arrives the next day so that may be a possibility too.

 

[jtadysak]

I ordered a Tstat from dodge today. . Should arrive thursday. . Well see what the outcome is. .



Ill update. .



-Jordan