Temp check

[dbecker63]

I drive a '96 Jimmy with a 4.3L engine. After an hour and a half on the highway, I noticed the temp gauge increasing from about 180 to 215, then it continued increaeing until finally stopping at 230. The gauge stayed at 230 for the duration. Please advise items to check to determine what is faulty. The coolant, thermostat, and heater core have been replaced within the last two months. I did a Prestone Super Flush when the coolant was replaced. Is it time for a professional flush or a new radiator? Thanks, all you guys are great!

Becker

[drdd]

I was having similar problems. I changed the thermostat - nope. I changed the radiator cap - nope. I changed the water pump - nope. Finally I just flushed the heck out of it. I flushed the heater core by itself. Then I reverse flushed it. I flushed the radiator, inspected all hoses, flushed the block. I flushed it while the engine was running. I let that garden hose run for probably 20 minutes! Anyhow, that solved the problem and havn't had a problem since. You can buy a flush-kit at the local auto store for $10.

Also, check that the plastic reservoir tank is not obstructed.

Also, use DexCool only. Dont use green antifreeze and don't mix.

If that doesn't work, try replacing the temp sending unit.

Originally Posted by dbecker63

I drive a '96 Jimmy with a 4.3L engine. After an hour and a half on the highway, I noticed the temp gauge increasing from about 180 to 215, then it continued increaeing until finally stopping at 230. The gauge stayed at 230 for the duration. Please advise items to check to determine what is faulty. The coolant, thermostat, and heater core have been replaced within the last two months. I did a Prestone Super Flush when the coolant was replaced. Is it time for a professional flush or a new radiator? Thanks, all you guys are great!

Becker

[dbecker63]

Thanks, getting rid of all the crud from the Dex cool is much cheaper than a new radiator.

[dbecker63]

I removed the thermostat and did an extended flush, no change. I changed the radiator and this did the trick. Engine temp now runs about 185. Thanks for the input.

DB

[BlazerLT]

replace the rad cap with something non acdelco.