overheating

[kriztupher]

my car has been overheating for the last few days. The only simptom that i see that may have something to do with it is my overflow is empty a lot when i check it. But my radiator fluid is always full. my car will be just fine while i'm driving on the highway in 5th gear. But the second i get off the highway down into lower gears, the car immediately starts to rise in temperature. I can get it to stay down somewhat by keeping the heat on all the way but i don't know if it's a thermostat, a gasket, or just the overflow. if someone could help me out i'd appriciate it a lot. thanks...

 

[twr]

I fought a cooling issue on my 95'. I would tend to think the thermostat is sticking partial closed, since the car cools down with the heat blasting. If there is sufficient pressure from the pump (rpm's) it can push some coolant through, but if you are sitting in traffic - it will overheat. If the system can't hold presure it will also overheat. I found the following had gone bad on mine (hopefully your's is much simpler) bad Radiator, radiator cap, upper radiator hose, heat core hose, unclamped throttle body coolant hose and leaking WP. After replacing all of that crap (after a month of tracing) - the car doesn't even give a hint of overheating.
Terry

<small>[ March 19, 2002, 11:58 AM: Message edited by: twrsho ]</small>

 

[220ksho]

Do you have hot, consistent heat? If so, your thermostat may not be opening all the way. That happened to me. Replaced it, fixed it.

To verify that theory, grab the block to radiator hose (upper fat hose) with your hand. When the car is at full temp, it should be too hot to grab, if it's not hot, then your thermostat needs to be replaced.

Jeff Grondin (michigan)

 

[sdpatt]

It sounds like your radiator cooling fan is not running. Verify the fan's operation by turning the climate control to MAX A/C. The fan should start immediately and stay on as long as the A/C is selected. If the fan is not running, the brushes in the motor are probably worn out. You can either replace the brushes, the motor or the entire fan and shroud assembly (the last is the only way Ford sells it). I have seen the motor sold separately on either RockAuto.com, FordPartsOnline.com or other online parts source.

You will have to find the source of the coolant leak. The most direct method is to look for puddles under the car. Check the radiator hoses, heater hoses and water pump (drains below the crankshaft damper).

 

[Slo-Sho]

I had to replace the driver's side fan motor. $69.99 lifetime from Autozone. Make EVERY attempt not to damage the fan blade! I cracked mine getting it off the drive shaft and it's a discontinued item from Ford.