over heat

[stang]

MY 1998 2.2L CAVALIER WHEN I GUN IT UP LOTS OR WHEN IT IDLES IT GET HOT ANY IDEAS

[Pikachoo]

#1 rule when you're car starts getting hot... replace the thermostat. It's a $10 part and easy to install, so even if that's not the problem at least you will know. Also make sure that the electric fan is coming on like it's supposed to. It should kick on around 210 or so I think.

[Flatrater]

What do you consider hot? It is normal for a car to get hot when you have an extended idle. You have less airflow over the rad at this time. Also reving the engine or brake torquing will overheat the car and possible melt the cat convertor. If the car temp is right going down the highway and only starts to climb at idle, it is normal.

Make sure you have plenty of coolant in the rad. Make sure you have no coolant leaks both of these thing cause higher than normal temps.

[Robman]

From what you are describing you are putting the car into conditions that will make it run hot. As long as the car doesnt get hot under "normal" conditions, you should be alright.