My 1997 Limited V6 gave me the pink milkshake last summer which I caught immediately and replaced radiator and all fluids. Put a new Carquest radiator in with standard Penzoil coolant at that time 12k ago. All has been fine the past 12 months, truck always has and still runs normal operating temp which is a needle width below halfway on the temp gauge. Twice now at idle sitting still for more than 5 minutes the temp gauge creeps up and will go to red unless I cut engine off or start moving. If I start moving it dives back to normal quick. I realize this has been in air temps of 85-90 degrees, parked on blacktop, but still doesn't seem right. The only mod I have done is the rear seat heater core bypass, which I did 4 months ago and was done properly. My 2000 SR5 V6 never did this on a 14 year old radiator. Any advice appreciated!

So it’s overheating at idle?

Obviously check your coolant levels, but this is classic fan clutch stuff. Replace the fan clutch and call it a day.

You need a new fan clutch.

Yep clutch fan time.


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When you changed out the coolant from the milkshake, was there any residual oil left in the coolant system? It could also be causing issues if there's some still left. It will be easy to spot, it will be in your overflow reservoir as well as on the top of the radiator under the cap before you start it. A coolant flush product might help.

Also agree on the fan clutch not engaging like it should.

Saturns have a oil in coolant issue and there is a specific way to remove the oil. It does effect the heat transfer according to Saturn.


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Check your thermostat first. Could be gunked from the milkshake.

Well the fan clutch is easy enough to see. Pop the hood and see if the fans spinning at idle and does is spool up when you rev the engine.