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Old Apr 12, 2004 | 06:37 PM
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over heating questions

i recently bought a 1986 f -150 and i noticed that about 75% of the time i'm driving that the temp gauge is past the 'L' in NORMAL but just shy of 'H' on the guage. other times the needle is on the 'M' in NORMAL. it doesn't show signs of over heating when it's high however it does concern me that it does this. anyone know what the problem could be???
 
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Old Apr 12, 2004 | 09:24 PM
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I would start with replacing the thermostat and gasget and flushing the cooling system. If it persists you may have a clogged radiator, or it could just be low on coolant if you havent checked that yet. Check the fan clutch too as it may be worn out. Wouldnt hurt to replace the temp sender if you arent sure of its reliability. I usually start with the easy, maintenance items first, especially since you have no way of knowing when it was serviced last.

Edit, be sure to test and replace the radiator cap if needed. A stuck cap can cause the hoses to collapse and create an overheat.. and yes check them hoses too.
 

Last edited by HomerWinzlow; Apr 12, 2004 at 09:27 PM.
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Old Apr 14, 2004 | 02:12 AM
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From: Hendersonville, TN
Order of likelyhood:
1. Low coolant level
2. Sticking Thermostat
3. Fan Clutch
4. Clogged radiator.
Coincidentally, these are in ascending order of repair costs as well
 
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