Ford Explorer Heat Problem

1997 FORD EXPLORER
77,000 MILES • V8 • AWD • AUTOMATIC
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JNVETTE
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
I have a 98 Ford explorer 5.0, that the heat won't work, blows out cold air. Did all the standard stuff, new clutch fan, thermostat, waterpump, heater control valve, flushed out core. Also replaced the blend door a while back. The hoses going in and out of core aren't that hot, the engine doesn't seem to be heating up correctly, althought the gauge inside says it is. It doesn't appear to be burning coolant or leaking into crankcase, but I can't seem to get the radiator to hold a good pressure either? replaced radiator cap too. Any help I'm at a loss...
Thanks
Jan 13, 2011 at 5:13 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 110,246 POSTS
Check the coolant temp with a mechanical thermometer. Open the radiator cap when the engine is cold, place the thermometer in the radiator, and start the engine. Allow it to warm up. In cold temps, it should operate around 190 degrees. If you are not reaching that, replace the t-stat again. Make sure it is designed to fully open at 195 degrees F.

I will say that if the heater core hoses are getting warm, you should be getting warm air in the vehicle (at least). If you are not, I would recommend rechecking your work at the blend door.
Jan 21, 2011 at 2:11 PM
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