where did the heat go?

[tshields]

Just put a new water pump on my 92 W250, filled with 50/50 mix of zerex antifreeze and distilled water. Now the temp gauge barely gets past the 0 degree reference line after appx 15-20 min. of normal driving. After appx 40 min of driving it will register in the normal range but cool off really fast when I stop for a light or slow down. Im in Colorado and work til late, so you know im in a freezer! Appreciate any help.

 

[ETOBICOKE]

Heat

Since the heater worked properly before the water pump was replaced it should rule out any other problems. First off you did not mention how you re-filled the coolant, you could have an air lock in the heater. When filling the coolant system of most vehicles the heater must be turned on first. With the engine stopped fill the radiator as much as is possible, do not put on the rad cap, then start the engine. In some cases the coolant level will drop right away and you will need to add more. In any case you should wait until the coolant begins to circulate (thermostat begins to open). At this point top up the coolant and replace the rad cap. The reason for this is to get as much air out of the cooling system as possible.



Neil

 

[tshields]

its baaaack!

Thanks Neil,

After your post, I realized the mistake I made was that I kept it running while filling since the block still had fluid. So I redid it and wha-la the temp is registering properly and the most important at this time of the year... I have heat!



Thanks a bunch!



Chip