Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Wandering Temperature Gauge?

[litespeed]

For about the past 6 months the temperature gauge in the truck will wander back and forth. Above and below the 190 mark in the center.



It will do it for no apparent reason. Empty or pulling..... It does not matter. It used to stay pegged just below 190 and never budge!



I cannot hear the fan clutch coming on so I am assuming it is either a gauge or sending unit problem? Or the thermostat?



Is this something to be concerned about? Has anyone else had this problem? Or am I just too "in touch" with my gauges?



Thanks,



AJ

 

[EGaskamp]

I think it might be your thermostat just opening and closing. It's good to be in touch with your gauges. There aren't enough people out there who even know they have gauges in the dash! It could be an insturmentation problem as well though, but I don't think so. Maybe someone will chime in with some some input. Hope this helps.



Eric

 

[DSaiter]

I have the same issue on my gauge. I was told that it is a normal condition. You are seeing the tstat opening and closing.

 

[DGerth]

Yeah,

Mine has done that since new. To quote a phrase, "Nature of the beast"?

I've not experienced any - effects from this phenom.

dg

 

[litespeed]

Thanks for the input!



Good enough for me... .



AJ

 

[steved]

Actually, if you look for a TSB, there is one that has the "fluxuating temp guage"... the fix is a new thermostat. My 99 did this (actually just started with no warning at about 100k), I found the TSB, replaced the thermostat, and the issue went away... don't go to dodge after one as they could not get me the correct one... ust go to Cummins and have them get you one...



I don't know if the "cycling" would have did anything, but I didn't trust it.



steved