Temperature gauge and oil gauge and going all the way to the red soon as i start the engine

1997 FORD F-150
250,000 MILES • 4.2L • V6 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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GINGER KING
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  • 1 POST
After running for 5 minutes the oil gauge goes down to about normal but temperature gauge stays in the red. Top radiator hose gets hot, bottom radiator hose is still cold and water in the reservoir is still cold. I just recently replaced both heads, water pump, thermostat and serpentine belt. Please help.
Jul 29, 2020 at 9:44 AM
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ASEMASTER6371
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
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Good evening,

The engine is overheating.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-overheating-or-running-hot

It may be air bound. I would remove the thermostat and fill the system until the coolant comes out the thermostat housing. Then install the thermostat and top it off and run it.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-thermostat

Roy

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Jul 29, 2020 at 10:49 AM
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BMDOUBLE
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If you have a compressor, the best way to fill these is with an airlift. They can be bought online for around $40.00. I can tell you that it's worth it!
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Jul 30, 2020 at 3:03 AM
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GINGER KING
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Thank you, i will try this.
Aug 1, 2020 at 4:29 AM
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STRAILER
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ASEMASTER6371 and BMDOUBLE are some of our best! Please let us know what you find. We are interested to see what it is.
Aug 1, 2020 at 4:30 AM
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