Picked up 1st Gen. Having some issues...

[sdot2010]

Picked up a 1987 with 163k on it. Very minor body and frame rust. I've done the minor maintenance on it (i.e. oil change, coolant change, new spark plugs, spark plug wires, and air filter). Got it all back in and running, drove it for 3 miles or so, pulled off and saw it was running way too hot.

Coolant reservoir was boiling when I popped the hood.

Anyone have an idea what this could be? I'm thinking head gasket but there are several other things it could be. I'm new to this so any and all help is welcome.

 

[PRdubi]

could be blocked thermostat

 

[sdot2010]

replaced radiator cap and added more coolant, fixed the problem

 

[fourwd1]

Now that was an easy fix !

 

[UteRunner]

One thing I've learned with mine is always, always, always check the simplest (stupidest) things first. I can't remember all the times I thought I had a huge problem and it ended up being a small and/or cheap fix. I've learned to take my time, search the interwebs thoroughly, and if all else fails...zip-tie the sucker.:thumb:

 

[sdot2010]

Fuel/air mix issue next

now there is some quality advice. Went through all the options and began freaking out about a blown head gasket. Glad I tried the simple things. Now just need to figure out this fuel/air mixture issue...

I can smell fuel in the exhaust and the truck has little power and wont get over 55mph. Any ideas?

 

[penbergm]

Make sure timing is set correctly with connector jumpered. Make sure TPS is set correctly.