98 Taurus Over Heat only when A/C on

I have a 98 Ford Taurus 3.0 24v DOHC with 139k miles (has been a great car). Last summer and now this summer when I run the A/C it begins to overheat to the point it will stall. I have noticed that when the A/C is not on the fans run quite a bit. I realize the A/C puts extra strain on the engine but I am not sure if it is just a thermostat issue, water pump or other. Any ideas? p.s. This engine is a pain to work on because it is in there so tight!

I have a 98 Ford Taurus 3.0 24v DOHC with 139k miles (has been a great car). Last summer and now this summer when I run the A/C it begins to overheat to the point it will stall. I have noticed that when the A/C is not on the fans run quite a bit. I realize the A/C puts extra strain on the engine but I am not sure if it is just a thermostat issue, water pump or other. Any ideas? p.s. This engine is a pain to work on because it is in there so tight!

Hello,

Sorry I don't have a solution for you! but I have the exact same problem in the exact same car just 1999 Year.

Did you find a solution,yet?

Thanks!

Kai

Hello,

Sorry I don't have a solution for you! but I have the exact same problem in the exact same car just 1999 Year.

Did you find a solution,yet?

Thanks!

Kai

Not yet...I have a Chilton's book for it I may start with the thermostat. I thought about asking the dealer mechanic but then they will want to takea look at it and well you know what that means $$$$$$$

This engine is a pain to work on because it is in there so tight!

Don't know of many or any for that matter that aren't a pain to work on. Did you check for the obvious, restricted air flow through the condensor and then the radiator? The thermostat could be at fault, not opening fully. The water circulation through the radiator/engine could be a problem. Have checked profesionally or drain and pour water through radiator and see if it comes out the drain plug fairly fast or better yet disconnect the lower radiator hose and pour through and it should come out nearly as fast as it goes in, with in reason. Take the serpentine belt off (may as well replace as long as you're that far if it hasn't been replaced lately) and check the water pump. Should be no up down movement or side to side movement. The A/C kick out switch could be faulty too as well as other possibilties. These are the more prevalentm though. Good luck and post back with an update if you can.

Had the same problem with 99 Ford Taurus with over 200K. Found radiator had to be replaced. Extra load with A/C and high outside temperature caused it to start to overheat. After radiator was changed, no more problem.

I had the same issue with my 98 Taurus. I gave the radiator a shot with the air compressor and cleaned out TONS of crap. Its ran excellent ever since.

I have a 98 se with 110k miles and had the same problem. Flush the entire cooling system. the radiator, all hoses into and out of the engine, and the heater coil. I do this at least twice a year and it doesn't happen anymore.