1986 F250 460 running hot
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Junior User
Joined: Oct 2013
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From: Land of Port, OR
1986 F250 460 running hot
So, I think my 86 is running hot (it just feels that way). I can't really tell because the temperature gauge doesn't work.
Coolant is circulating, as the hose feels hot.
Any ideas on where I should start? I wouldn't mind having a working gauge, but I don't know how to tell if the gauge is shot, the wiring isn't working or the sensor is done. Plus the gauge obviously wouldn't be the cause of it running hot, so any other ideas would be nice...
Coolant is circulating, as the hose feels hot.
Any ideas on where I should start? I wouldn't mind having a working gauge, but I don't know how to tell if the gauge is shot, the wiring isn't working or the sensor is done. Plus the gauge obviously wouldn't be the cause of it running hot, so any other ideas would be nice...
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Junior User
Joined: Oct 2013
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From: Land of Port, OR
You don't recommend trying to fix or replace the original gauge? Because I have no issues with doing the extra work if necessary.
More Turbo
Joined: Mar 2015
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From: Springfield, MO
I would but I don't care for under the dash gauges. Start with the sending unit and work your way to the dash unless you already know the part that's bad.
BUT... it is very nice having a numerical value as the built in gauge doesn't really tell you much. You could always get an under the dash unit temporarily and still fix the stock one. The added benefit being that you'll know what the value is of the stock unit if you run them together for awhile.
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Joined: Jan 2001
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From: Virginia
I do not. What is "normal" temperature? What is "normal" oil pressure?
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Junior User
Joined: Oct 2013
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From: Land of Port, OR
Not the last time, but it has been a while....
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Junior User
Joined: Oct 2013
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From: Land of Port, OR
Well I tested the wires and the gauge, and they were fine. The sensor was out. Easy fix! But it is definitely running hot. Way hotter than before (I've had this truck a while) I flushed and replaced the coolant and it was fine. Still hot. Any other thoughts?
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From: Virginia
What evidence do you have that leads you to believe it's running hot?
Lead Driver
Joined: Nov 2013
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+1 on that. Beg, borrow, or steal an infrared thermometer. You can get an El Cheapo brand for $25 or so that will work just fine. You are working blind without one.
With the engine fully warm, measure the temperature of the thermostat housing and tell us what you've got. That will help determine whether you've got an actual overheating issue, an indication problem, or a combination of the two.