Bad radiator, can I still drive it?

[ChrisR]

My radiator is bad and seems to have a clog or something in it. Anyway, my temp guage goes up really fast. Do you think it is ok just to drive to school and stuff? I did today and the temp needle got up to about the "O" by the time I got to school. Do you think this could cause major damage?

I can't get it fixed until at least friday, that's why I ask.

Chris

 

[93MTXSHO]

Are you sure it's not the thermostat? If it was stuck, that would make the needle climb. If I were you, I wouldn't drive it. The SHO motor has aluminum heads, which are VERY unforgiving to overheating. If I were you, I'd check out the thermostat. And if it's bad, go to a close Ford dealer and get one. They'll most likely have to order it, but the aftermarket ones just don't look right and don't have the jiggle valves. As far as the radiator goes, don't buy a Modine. Mine has 11K on it and it's leaking again, but only when it's really cold out, so I'm just gonna drive it until I'm home in a week or so.

 

[ChrisR]

Well, the reason I drove it today was to take it to Dr. Zigs Radiator Clinic. He tested it and said the radiator is bad/clogged. He didn't check the thermostat however...

 

[SolidState]

it is getting to the O and you are worried?

if it got above the N, I would be a little concerned..

 

[ChrisR]

it is getting to the O and you are worried?

Well, this is only on about a 3-4 mile trip, RPM's never going above 3k.

When I didn't know it was my radiator, it went about 1/8th inch above the "H". After that, I didn't drive it for about a week.

 

[NWGRN94MTX]

Chris, Did you talk to Daryl? $ 105.00 for a new Vistion. (In his Obie Juan Kanobie voice)Use the club Chris, use the club. wink I'll even head on up and help you out if you need it.

 

[ChrisR]

Yeah, I did talk to Daryl. He said the group buy didn't get enough people, and they are back up to $145 now.

Edit: but I will take you up on your offer to come up and help me! But I still need to get the rad. I'm looking for the cheapest place right now.

<small>[ November 20, 2002, 11:28 AM: Message edited by: ChrisR ]</small>