truckin4life1976

This 1997 rodeo has a few problems i cant solve. The most important one to me right now is i changed all three belts the other day and it started ok. As I was picking up my tools i noticed coolant pouring out from underneath on the passenger side. Looks like the transfer case seal leaking. Anyhow I put some prestone sealer in it and it quit leaking. Now that it dosent leak it overheats. I atleast had heat before i put a new thermostat in but now that i changed it I have no heat either and it still overheats. I also have this terrible ticking that comes and goes as you drive. I read another forum that suggested it might have something to do with the water pump. Do you think my water pump has finally went???
I have a feeling it might have since i changed the thermostat and the hoses are now cold and the heat blows cold air and it overheats. Any comments???

Cat Fuzz

Water pumps rarely just stop pumping. Usually what goes bad is the shaft seal which causes a leak.

You may have bought a defective thermostat. I've had this happen to me before. Always test new thermostats with boiled water before installing. Also, the stop leak you used may also be the problem. Could have clogged up the radiator or something else. You always want to add stop leak when the engine is cold.

Cat Fuzz

Another thing, did you make sure that you topped off the coolant and checked several times to make sure its full? You could have an air bubble in the system making it impossible for the water pump to build up pressure.

eric147

HEY!!!

How about an update!!??!?!?!

My 1997 Isuzu Rodeo overheated on the way home tonight. I have been smelling radiator fluid for a few days, and have been keeping my eye on the temp gage and the coolant levels. Every thing was fine until I stopped for gas. As soon as I pulled away from the pump, the temp went high. I got home, changed the thermostat and hoses for good measure, drove around the block, and no heat, and the motor overheating. When popped the hood, the radiator was hot, and venting into the overflow.

I had no problems with the heat before I left the gas station.

My next thought is water pump. I will check for a bubble, but I would think a trip 'round the block should have knock one loose?

Thanks for any input....

Oh- And after the fact, I checked the old thermostat I pulled out, and it seemed fine.