Rising Water Temp Gauge

[4wheeln98]

I've recently noticed when I am at a stop my water temp gauge increases and it gets pretty close to red line. Once I start moving it goes down almost right away to its normal position. Any ideas what it could be or what I can do to fix it.

 

[Elton]

t-stat on its way out you sure the fan is working ?

 

[4wheeln98]

yea the fan is spinning normal. no blades missing. Now that it is cooler it hasn't done it. So im wondering if im just low on fluids.

 

[jharris2]

I agree with Elton -- sounds like the thermostat. How long since the antifreeze has been changed? May be a great time to flush the system, replace with new coolant, and replace the thermostat. Be sure to check the hoses, too, to make sure they will last as long as the coolant.

 

[4wheeln98]

I've had it for 2 years now but never changed the coolant. Guess ill do that this week. thanx

 

[greasefingers]

Your thermostat is fine. Overheating at idle is a classic example of the fan work working correctly. I do not have your type of engine. Is it a mechanical viscous-fluid type or electrical?

 

[Louie]

Check to make sure it's not your water pump.

 

[4wheeln98]

I checked my coolant tank in the mourning and the level was below L so thats probably when it is. Now how should i go about filling it back to Full level. Do I pour into the radiator or the coolant tank?

 

[broncosi]

same thing happened to me before and they replaced the thermostat about 8 months ago, then it started happening again recently where id pull out onto a main road that was crowded and id have to speed up real quick to get into traffic and my temp gauge would go up.

but once i got into traffic my temp went right back down.

i got to work and let it cool down and put some water in the radiator and it was fine, now my temp sit just below middle way.


sooo i would suggest getting the hose and putting water in your radiator

 

[4wheeln98]

I put some coolant in today so ill see if that solves it.

 

[xUSNavy]

Your radiator may be blocked. If you used tap water in your previous coolant change and the tap water in your area has a high mineral count, then the minerals could have separated and are now clogging the radiator. If this is the case, you will have to get the radiator rodded out.

It may also be the thermostat. You should pull the t-stat out and test in some boiling water. If it opens fully, then you may have a blocked radiator.

 

[4wheeln98]

I just added antifreeze and coolant the other day. I drove a good distance thurs and fri and those days were pretty warm outside. The temp gauge stayed level when i sat at a red light at idle. I guess thats all that was needed. Thanx everyone for your comments and suggestions.