2000 Ford Explorer Thermostat / Temperature sending unit /

SWABS66

MEMBER
2000 FORD EXPLORER
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
112,000 MILES

My check gauge light continues to come on when my temp. Gauge heats up. Took car to the dealer and they said my head gasket needs to be replaced. I'm not loosing any fluids, changed my oil to see if there were any signs of antifreeze or moisture in the oil- nothing showing signs of a head gasket problem. Car still runs good for a car with 112,000 miles. I'm not seeing any white smoke or antifreeze coming out the tail pipe. When the temp. Gauge goes all the way up and the check gauge light comes on I get out and the engine is still feeling cool with no smell of overheating. I've been told that it could be my gauge not working correctly along with the thermostat? Please send me suggestions on what to check. I think the dealer was trying to screw me!

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,758 POSTS

It sounds like the temp sending unit is bad. Here is how you can check. They make a thermometer for checking engine coolant temp. Most parts stores will lend them to you. All you do is this. With the engine cold, remove the radiator cap and place the end of the thermometer in the coolant. Start the engine and let it warm up. The thermostat should fully open at 195 degrees F, so that is when you should see if fully circulating. Allow it to fun keeping an eye on the thermometer. If your vehicle's gauge shows it is overheating, chech the thermometer and compare. At operating temp, it will be around 200 °F.

Let me know what you find. Also, let me know if it is overheating at highway speeds or only in town driving.

Joe