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Engine overheating

Tiny
BOBWALKER26180
  • MEMBER
  • 2006 FORD EXPLORER
  • 4.0L
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 240,000 MILES
Engine runs at normal temperature on highway but overheats when going through slow city traffic or while waiting in Drive-thru.
Tuesday, August 4th, 2020 AT 9:12 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

Based on your description, it sounds like the cooling fan isn't operating. Does this happen when the A/C is on or can it happen regardless? I'm asking because there could be an issue with the electric fan or the fan clutch.

Here are a few links to help you better understand:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-a-clutch-fan-works

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/fan-clutch-symptoms

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-an-electric-cooling-fan-works

Let me know.

Joe
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Tuesday, August 4th, 2020 AT 10:50 PM
Tiny
BOBWALKER26180
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
After reading these helpful hints, I believe my fan clutch is bad.I do not hear the fan engage when I am in traffic even when it's 90+ degrees out. Don't remember the last time I have heard it work.
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Wednesday, August 5th, 2020 AT 7:56 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
When the fan clutch is fully engaged, it sounds like a jet engine. LOL Honestly, chances are that is the problem then. If it isn't turning fast enough, it won't help cool the vehicle the way it needs. Keep in mind, it engages slowly, but if it is overheating, it should be full engaged and you should hear it.

Here is a link that shows in general how one is replaced:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/fan-clutch-removal

Let me know if you have questions or need help.

Take care,
Joe

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Wednesday, August 5th, 2020 AT 11:08 PM
Tiny
BOBWALKER26180
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
Thanks, a mechanical friend of mine thinks it is the fan clutch also. With 240,000 miles, I am going to change it. Thank you very much.
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Thursday, August 6th, 2020 AT 8:52 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
You are very welcome. Do me a favor. If you get a chance, let me know if that takes care of the issue. Your reply will likely help others in the future.

Take care,
Joe
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Thursday, August 6th, 2020 AT 11:55 PM
Tiny
BOBWALKER26180
  • MEMBER
  • 4 POSTS
I took my vehicle to a local mechanic and the problem was a bad fan clutch. Thanks for your help!
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Friday, August 14th, 2020 AT 7:10 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,747 POSTS
Hi,

Thanks for letting me know. I suspected that was the issue. Regardless, I'm glad you got things taken care of. Please feel free to come back anytime in the future if you have questions.

Take care of yourself.

Joe
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Friday, August 14th, 2020 AT 9:22 PM

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