Running cold since new radiator

[underdog1924]

Ever since I put in a the new radiator my '95 ATX has been running really cold. It will just barely get into the range and if I'm lucky it might get to the L in NORMAL. Any ideas? Thanks

 

[Tommy's SHO]

Mine did the same thing when I changed my radiator and actually still does on the highway whenever it is 45 degrees and below. It runs below the "L" mark. If you properly filled the radiator as it says on SHOtimes you should not have a problem.

Do you have heat?

 

[Mr Anonymous]

On my '94 ATX, my temp gauge normally stays right between the 'A' and 'L' when the A/C or defroster is selected (which causes the cooling fans to run continuously), or on the 'M' when just on heat or vent or if the climate control is off (when the fans only turn on at a certain temp).

How long ago did you replace the radiator? You might just have some air in the system. Check your gas mileage. If you're getting 20+ MPG, then the t-stat and ECT sensors are probably OK. A new gauge sender switch is only $7 at AutoZone which might give you a slightly more accurate reading (the temp. gauge is not an exact measurement of temp., just a guide to what is 'normal').

 

[shojuan]

Replace the gauge sender as SHOooo suggested and get a new 88C Motorcraft thermostat. Your existing thermostat might be stuck open. It's possible to get over 20mpg and have the thermostat stuck open. When my Mom owned my SHO she got a pretty consistant 23 mpg and the thermostat was stuck open for several years before it stuck closed, then my Dad replaced it. Symptoms were the same as you described. Surprised it didn't hose the cats, but they're still good enough to pass smog with flying colors.

Rick

 

[RStalveyARFF]

my theory is there was so much crap in the old radiator, that your car lost all that "insulation" so to speak, so you are now experiencing the efficient cooling you should have gotten before. The t-stat is fine, hoses are fine. If the sender was saying something with the old radiator, and then he changes the radiator and gets a different reading, why is the sender bad? Seems to me like it's working perfectly. Bring it by sometime Matt, I'll do a coolant test on it. Sorry if I'm looking snitty, I'm just not in the greatest mood.

 

[underdog1924]

The tstat was replaced last April so I highly doubt it's the problem. There could be some air pockets in it though.

 

[underdog1924]

Oh ya....got plenty of heat

 

[Jr's Sho]

Since you replaced you T-stat and you have heat, why not replace your temperature switch? It only cost me $2.99 at the local Autozone.