Coolant System By-Pass Kit
I posted a message about six months ago about a cooling system problem with my '93 3.0 AT 2WD Ranger. Basically, when it warms up I get a loud knocking noise from the thermostat housing area. It seems like there is air trapped in the cooling system, but no matter what I have tried to do to get it out, I still have the same problem.
I talked with a shop last week about this problem, and one of the mechanics working there is an ex-Ford tech, and he said there was a TSB out about this issue. It is TSB 96-21-12, and it describes the exact problem I am having. Apparently to fix it, you have to install a cooling system by-pass kit (p/n F47Z-8522-F), which includes a coolant by-pass kit, replacement lower radiator hose, and elbow-hot water heater connection. It lists for almost $200, and I can probably get it online for about $150.
Before I spend the money, I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this same problem and if the kit solved it. Also, I am trying to figure out exactly what this kit does to see if I can replicate if for cheaper.
Thanks in advance!
Here is the full TSB covering the 3.0L referenced by the shop:
LIGHT TRUCK: 1991-95 RANGER 1995 AEROSTAR
This TSB is being republished in its entirety to include the 1995 model year and to add Aerostar to the list of affected vehicles.
ISSUE:
A "knocking/thumping" noise may be audible in the passenger compartment on some vehicles. This noise is most pronounced with the engine at normal operating temperature. The noise is caused by steam formation in the cooling system. The noise is then transmitted through the heater hoses and heater core.
ACTION:
Install a Coolant By-Pass Kit. This increases coolant flow which reduces steam formation. Refer to the following Diagnostic and Service Procedure for details.
DIAGNOSTIC AND SERVICE PROCEDURE
1. Check that base timing is at 10* BTDC with SPOUT disconnected.
2. Check for excessive exhaust system restrictions. A restricted exhaust could elevate cooling system temperatures.
3. If dash-mounted cooling temperature gauge fluctuates, check that gauge and sending unit are functioning properly.
4. Check for restrictions or kinks in the radiator or heater hoses.
5. Pressure check cooling system for leaks.
6. Confirm proper Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor signal to EEC-IV processor. Refer to TSB Article 93-24-8 (Cooling System - Thermostat Diagnosis) for tool and procedure to check thermostat.
7. Check for correct 50/50 coolant mix. Verify that freezing point is -37̊C (±-3*C) or -35*F (±5*F).
8. For 1991-93 Rangers, install a 110 kPa (16 psi) Radiator Cap (F4TZ-8100-B). NOTE: These model year vehicles originally came with a 90 kPa (13 psi) radiator cap.
9. If concern still exists, install service Coolant By-Pass Kit and verify that concern has been resolved. Refer to the Application Chart:
PART NUMBER / PART NAME
F57Z-8522-AA / By-Pass Kit (1995 Ranger)
F59Z-8522-CA / By-Pass Kit (1995 Aerostar)
F47Z-8522-A / By-Pass Kit (1991 Ranger With Automatic Transmission)
F47Z-8522-B / By-Pass Kit (1991 Ranger With Manual Transmission)
F47Z-8522-C / By-Pass Kit (1992 Ranger With Automatic Transmission)
F47Z-8522-D / By-Pass Kit (1992 Ranger With Manual Transmission)
F47Z-8522-E / By-Pass Kit (1993-94 Ranger With Automatic Transmission)
F47Z-8522-F / By-Pass Kit (1993-94 Ranger With Manual Transmission)
F4TZ-8100-B / Radiator Cap
OTHER APPLICABLE ARTICLES:
93-24-8
SUPERSEDES:
95-12-8
I will probably just bite the bullet, order the kit, and hope it fixes the problem. The TSB describes my exact problem, so I'd think the kit will fix it.
I notice you have a 94 SHO MTX - how do you like it? I've had my 95 MTX for five years now and love it. Even with 120K on the clock, it runs like new and will still beat a majority of the cars on the road.
As a matter of fact I was recently tooting my SHO's horn in this thread:
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/s...d.php?t=330601
I checked out yours, it looks like it's in great shape, and your description of the SHO along side the pics is a nice touch, especially for those people who aren't that familiar with it.
Good luck with the by-pass kit, keep us posted on the results.
Thanks for posting the bulletin!
Bob Allen Ford Parts
9239 Metcalf Ave
Overland Park, Ks. 66212
Cell # 913-707-0054
Parts # 913-381-2999
Fax # 913-383-2947
Wanted $292 plus shipping
Part #: F47Z-8522-A
Obviously, please verify all this stuff, don't take my humble word for it.
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