91 Regal Cooling Dilemma

[leogal33]

I have a 91 Buick Regal w/ a 3.1 liter engine. I just had a new radiator put in. This morning it died about 3 times on the way to work. It definitely seems to have something to do with temperature because if I let it sit for a minute and cool down it starts right back up again. The heat is working, but I have noticed that the "low coolant" light blinks on occasionally (even though the radiator and overflow tank are at their proper levels). Anyone have a suggestion as to what might be wrong?

Thanks!

Karen

[doityourselfer]

Hello
There is a low coolant level sensor located on the right side of the radiator tank. If it is coroded or faulty it could cause this problem. It senses low coolant level and could shut the engine down to keep it from overheating. Also, the coolant system is a closed loop system. This means that if you had it replaced it may have air in the system. These air pockets could cause it to run hot. Make sure it is at full level. You can try running the car with the radiator cap loose to burp the air from the system.
Hope this helps.
Thanks
doityourselfer!

[leogal33]

I knew something was up! It's still doing the same thing. OK, so this sensor thing is on the right side of the radiator tank.... how difficult is it to put in a new one? Is this something I could do myself? Do I have to pull the radiator to get to it? Any information you could offer would be a huge help!

Thanks again!

[doityourselfer]

Hello
I have a 1994 Regal. The sensor on mine is located as you are standing in front of the car on the right side of the radiator just below the filler neck. It has wire clips holding it in place. There will most likely be an o-ring behind it. Take care not to damage it.
It may just be coroded or a bad connection. You will have to drain the radiator down past the sensor.
Once you remove the clips that hold it place it should just twist out. I would clean it and reseat the connector and try it. If the radiator is full it should not be turning on the low coolant light. If it still does it I would replace it.
Hope this helps you out!
Thanks
doityourselfer.