Overheating? After a long run

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Mar 14, 2011 | 11:53 AM

Charlotte

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From: Vancouver Island, British

Overheating? After a long run

I drive an 88 Ranger, 2.9l Engine. A long time ago, a mechanic told me the temperature gauge indicator shouldn't get above the "R" in "Normal". However, these days I find if I drive over 20 k, it does get that high, then fluctuates back down again. Could it be a problem with the guage itself? I'm also noticing the fuel gauge now tells me there is much more gas in it than there actually is.

No steam comes out of the truck and it doesn't go into the red. If it is a potential problem, I'd like to deal with it before it gets worse.

I've checked the top hose and it's hot, which indicates the thermastat opens properly. I've checked the rad and other hoses and they also feel hot after a drive. If there is a problem, would changing the coolant fix it, or could it be something else?

Thanks,
Charlotte

Mar 14, 2011 | 03:05 PM

Beechkid

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From: Southern California

Time to replace the thermostat

Mar 14, 2011 | 05:09 PM

justforkicks

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From: Alston, MI

My 91 is the same way. Fluctuates between the R and A?

Mar 14, 2011 | 05:18 PM

aquanaut20

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From: BC Canada

Put an IR gun to it and determine the correct temp... Philip

Mar 15, 2011 | 12:07 AM

Charlotte

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From: Vancouver Island, British

What's an IR gun? Are they cheap to buy and how do you use one?

Mar 15, 2011 | 08:46 AM

03 Maz B23

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IR gun is an Infrared gun. Point at object you want to check temp on and it reads it. Harbor Freight, car parts stores and hardware stores should have at reasonable price.

Mar 15, 2011 | 10:42 AM

Beechkid

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From: Southern California

Quote:

Originally Posted by 03 Maz B23

IR gun is an Infrared gun. Point at object you want to check temp on and it reads it. Harbor Freight, car parts stores and hardware stores should have at reasonable price.

What also works well is a "meat" thermometer...but it does have to be placed in the fluid reservior.

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Mar 17, 2011 | 07:38 PM

Charlotte

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Joined: Oct 2002

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From: Vancouver Island, British

The problem has been fixed! No thermastat or coolant flush needed, just a brand new radiator cap. Took the truck for a long drive today and the temperature was completely normal. However, I will still be doing the rad flush, since preventative measures are the best repairs made for future problems.

Cheers,
Charlotte