1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass Overheating

TOGMIT

MEMBER
1996 OLDSMOBILE CUTLASS
6 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
80,000 MILES

My 1996 Ciera recently started overheating, on the way from work. I immediately, checked coolant levels and realized that my radiator was leaking. The source of the leak was a missing radiator drain plug, I replaced the plug and added new coolant. The cars temp stays stable for a while and then the needle shoots up all the way to the red zone. I then changed my thermostat and the problem seemed to be gone for a while. Then while driving I noticed a rattling sound, I assumed the impellar in my water pump had gone bad. Now I have replaced my water pump, the noise is gone but the car is still overheating. After driving I hear a gurgling sound, I have checked all houses and can find no leaks. I removed and checked radiator.I also have noticed that my heater doesn't work. Could it be my heater core? When idling (at normal temp) I can see a bit of smoke comming from somewhere under my exaust manifold. Please help I can't figure this out.

2 Replies

RASMATAZ

MECHANIC
75,992 POSTS

Could it be my heater core? No its got nothing to with the overheating-Do below

Have it block and pressure tested-do the block first to pinpoint a combustion leaking into the cooling system or a gas analyzer to sniff for hydrocarbons at the radiator fill neck.

Pressure test: do not do a pressure test if there's leakage at the headgasket this might cause coolant into the cylinders and lock it up or bend a connecting rod if cranked thereafter. The headgasket should be repaired before doing the pressure test.

If the block and pressure test passes check the following: Thermostat, Pressure test the Rad. Cap, Clogged radiator, Fan clutch, Radiator electrical fan, collaspe hoses, water pump.