Running hot

1989 FORD RANGER
4,000 MILES • 2.9L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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DIREWOLF 42
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I replaced the water pump and thermostat. However, now it's still running hotter than it should. At some point in time there was stop leak out in it by the previous owner. I have no clue why. Truck still runs pretty decent. However, this morning on my way to work I didn't have heat for around twenty minutes and when the heat finally did kick in the gauge didn't drop at all. Very low heat too usually that truck will roast you out of the cab.
Apr 24, 2019 at 1:51 AM
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BMDOUBLE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,139 POSTS
I would use an air lift to fully purge the air out of the cooling system. This is the best way to ensure that there are no air pockets in the cooling system, as that what it sounds like you have. They are readily available and are fairly cheap, as long as you stay away from the tool truck anyways.
Apr 24, 2019 at 10:52 AM
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DIREWOLF 42
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
As I was driving it home tonight it's started to overheat as I drove up the mountain, but as soon as I would stop the temperature gauge would drop back down. Should I just try the airlift as I'm not sure if the additional information will help with any other diagnosis.
Apr 24, 2019 at 11:43 AM
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BMDOUBLE
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 1,139 POSTS
You have either an air pocket in the cooling system or a head gasket issue, or even possibly a restriction caused by the stop leak gunk. I always try to eliminate the easiest thing, which is an air pocket but you can also get a block test kit at your local parts store which consists of a clear cylinder and a blue solution that you place over the radiator fill hole while the engine warms up, and if it turns color it will indicate combustion gases in the coolant, or in other words a head gasket issue.
Apr 25, 2019 at 12:39 PM
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