Explorer heating problems

FORD EXPLORER
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MASTERSGT
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I have a 1997 Explorer that is driving me nuts and empting my wallet!

The thing will be running OK then the temp. needle starts creeping into the red and the "check gauge" light comes on. If the truck is left on the needle returns to normal after a few seconds.

A check of the radiator after such an event shows it low on coolant even though the overflow tank is a normal level. The coolant level is checked and OK before the drive.

The cooling system has been flushed, the system has been drained after the flush thinking there is a bubble in causing the "burp".

Pressure checks have been done, radiator cap replaced, thermostat replaced, water pump replaced all to the tune of over $800!!!!! The problem still happens. Everything has been replaced but the blasted raidator!

Don't bother contacting Ford HQ they just say take it to a dealer, (and they wonder why they are going broke)!

I think I will pour in some Bars Raidator Stop Leak and see what happens! The cheapest solution yet!

Any suggestions besides selling my first Ford and buying another dependable Chevy!

Thanks
Jan 2, 2007 at 1:24 PM
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SERVICE WRITER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,123 POSTS
Don't use bar's leak!!!
It doesn't know the difference between a leak and a port.
Jan 2, 2007 at 1:28 PM
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RANGERMANIAC
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  • 20 POSTS
Well for one thing check the line going from your expansion tank to your rad it sounds like it is clogged but have you tried using the 10 below coolant that should tell you whether the radiator is bad since it will cool better, and when you are driving is it blowing out white smoke out of the exhaust even when it is warmed up if so you might have a blown head gasket also see if you can feel if a little bit of moisture is coming out of the exhaust
Jan 3, 2007 at 7:37 AM
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TAURUSWHEEL
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 718 POSTS
If it's been pressure-tested and no leaks were found, why would you use a stop-leak product??? If you're burning anti-frezze, you'll be able to smell it in your exhaust.. btw, personally speaking I've used several stop-leak products and had no problems... depending on what you need it for, you have to be careful how you install it.. you can plug the overflow bottle lines if you're not careful....
Jan 3, 2007 at 9:20 AM
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