Overheating

Temp gauge dies after being hot for so long. Heater does not blow hot air but every once in a while. And then its only hot for a short time before going cold again. Once coolant is burned or blown out, not sure which as there is never any coolant on the ground where we park, steam pours out of the passenger side somewhere under the reservior or near the radiator. Wet on water pump and hoses near there. Pump turns and doesnt seem to be not working. No water in floor board from coil. Once it heats up after starting it stays hot. Smells like hot radiator after it gets dry.