Running hot

JAMESTRA

MEMBER
2006 CHRYSLER TOWN AND COUNTRY
3.3L
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
206,000 MILES

It started to run hot I found only one fan working, I replaced them it still ran hot. I replaced the thermostat and the cooling temperature sensor it still goes to the hot side then back down. I checked the oil no water in the oil. It does not seem to be losing water it doesn't steam or I have found no water on the engine or seen any leaks. It never boiled over. Any clues to where or what to do next? Thanks, James

2 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,755 POSTS

Welcome to 2CarPros.

First, confirm there is nothing obstructing the air flow through the radiator. Next, if the fans are working, the thermostat is new, and the temp sensor has been replaced, have you tried flushing the radiator and engine block? Over time, they can build corrosion and slow the coolant flow to a point where this can happen. Also, and don't laugh, did you position the jiggle valve on the thermostat at 12 o'clock? That is what I was always told they were called. Basically it is a small valve that allows air to exit the system. If it is positioned wrong, you will struggle to get air from the system, which can cause this type of issue.

I attached a picture of the thermostat and circled the jiggle valve. See if you remember its positioning when installed.

If that was installed correctly, then I suggest two things. First, try flushing the system and replacing the radiator cap. If that doesn't help, then you need to check for possible head gasket issues.

Here are two links that you may find helpful. Also, the radiator cap is something people overlook. Keeping the system pressurized allows it to run cooler.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-flush-and-refill-all-cars

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

Let me know if you have other questions or what you find.

Take care,
Joe

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