Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Thermostat Sticking ?

[WBraico]

When I start my truck cold I notice the water temp. rises to about 220 Deg. then runs pretty normal after that one episode ,around 190 Deg.

Is it time for a $50. 00 Themostat ? I'm at around 108k miles on the truck.

PS Is it OK to use prestone ? or a heavy duty coolant like I run in my Big Cam 350.

Thanks Guys

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98. 5 Ram 3500 4x4 sport,Auto trans,3. 54's autometer,sport comp pyro,trans,boost,electric fuel press. w/snubber,warning light/chime. edge comp drag box,2nd VP-44 inj. pump,dual fltr. amsoil. allum trans pan, Bilstien shocks,westin bars,push bar,custom 5" exhaust, BHAF, silencer ring fell out

 

[bmoeller]

The thermostat could be sticking.



I've been running Prestone. We don't any SCAs in the coolant. It is a parent bore engine, no liners. You could use the same stuff that is run in your BC.

 

[EricBu12]

i replaced my T-stat and the one from Cummins which is cheaper than the dealer, Seems to be a much better unit than the one that comes from DC.



mine seemed to be OK but there was wierd fluctuations in the temp and upon further inspection, the base was cracked..... The DC unit has a bridge top and I have seen them broken on one leg which makes the T-stat stick.

 

[jhoughton]

I replaced mine when the truck had only 20k. It quit warming up to normal temp when weather was cold. Dealer wouldn't remove and check. Since they let idle with a piece of cardboard in front of radiator. The themostat had broke and was staying open. At that time dealer wanted $45 and cummins sold for $16. Definantly check the Cummins dealer over the Dodge dealer.

 

[davemac]

I was having the same problem with mine. I replaced the t-stat with Cummins part #3967195 which is a 180* t-stat. Temp guage hasn`t been over 180* since.