1996 Chevy Truck overheating

1996 CHEVROLET TRUCK
251,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
Avatar
PWILSO18
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Not losing antifeeze, waterpump not leaking, and the fan clutch is working fine, but after I drive my chevy c-1500 truck for more than 20 minutes it wants to overheat. However, when I turn on the heater, the temp goes back to normal. I have put on new hoses, new thermostat and radiator cap, still does it. Had it tested, no head gasket leaks.
Jun 5, 2010 at 7:47 AM
Advertisement
Avatar
CARADIODOC
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 34,407 POSTS
Hi pwilso18. Welcome to the forum. If the overheating does not occur at highway speeds, the problem is related to insufficient air flow through the radiator. Either it is clogged with a bug collection or the fan clutch is not working. A missing shroud around the back of the radiator will also cause overheating at low speeds.

If the overheating DOES occur at highway speeds, look at the cooling fins of the radiator. If they are corroded away or crumble when you touch them, they are no longer transferring heat to the air. The typical symptom is the one you already noticed where turning on the heater works as a small radiator. This is more common in the states where they melt an ounce of snow with a pound of road salt.

caradiodoc
Jun 5, 2010 at 8:17 AM
🔧 Tools & Auto Repair Parts
Find automotive tools, diagnostic equipment, and replacement parts for your next repair.
Shop on Amazon →
Paid affiliate link. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Add a reply
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.

Ask a new question

Frequently Asked Problems for This Vehicle