Temperature gauge

ROBETTE30

MEMBER
FORD EXPLORER

I have a 1999 ford explorer. It has 67,000 and a 2wheel drive with a 4.0l v6 eddie bauer edition. Soon after I start to drive it the temperature gauge starts to go to hot and the check gauge light comes on and then the temperature goes down and then back up, like a roller coaster. Car does not appear to get hot and smoke, but the AC is cold at first and then warm, it's like a roller coaster too when gauge goes up and down.
Other question is I have changed my gas cap 3 times in the past months because of smelling gas fumes at times and was told by one person that that is what it is. I don't think so because of purchasing different new ones has not fixed it. Do you have any suggestions to either question? Thanks so much for your time.

3 Replies

98RANGERXLT

MECHANIC
301 POSTS

Yor temp gauge is your stat not working right.

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Sunday, June 3rd, 2007 AT 9:55 AM

RUDPRO

MECHANIC
224 POSTS

Is your coolant low? You may have a leak. Is your overflow jug empty? Make sure your engine is cold, this is very important, after sitting overnight and remove the radiator cap and check the level of the radiator. If coolant is OK, then it probably is your thermostat like Fordman said.
The fuel smell, make sure you don't have any leaks from tank to the engine. It may also be your evaporative emissions system. There is a charcoal cannister in your engine compartment. There are lines from your gas tank attached. The cannister traps vapors and sends it back to the engine to be burned. Check the cannister for cracks or damage and check the lines going to it also.