1992 Overheating Problem

[NeoGinyu]

Hi, I have a 1992 Chevy Corsica that keeps overheating for no apparant reason. My engine coolant WAS low about 2 weeks ago, but I filled the tank with new coolant and have kept the car running frequently since then. The temperature still reads at the 3/4 mark after less than 30 min of driving. When I open the coolant tank, the coolant is not even close to boiling, but is steaming. I'm not sure how to check if the engine fan is working properly, so that may be the issue. My car has also had stalling problems, could it be related to the overheating issue? If anyone can help, I'd greatly appreciate it. Thanks!

[ladymech62]

Your thermostat could be stuck partially open.
The fan works off a temperature switch that once it reaches a certain temperature or when the AC is turned on. Once the temp comes down the fan turns off.
Overheating can sometimes relate to the stalling problems but it could be another problem . . .

[corsifreek]

i had the same problem in my '92. i took out the thermostat and moved it open and shut a bunch of times and then put it back.and because my thermo wasnt workin i had a small leak at the seal where the thermo is. i then went out to the auto parts store and bought a can of block sealer. it takes a while to do it because you have to flush your engine about 20 times then put it in and run the car for 30 mins and drain it. then you have to let it dry with the plug and coolant cap off for 24 hrs.

[knucklebuster2]

If your coolant was low, you may have a leak somewhere. Although you may have refilled it, there still may be air in the system. See if there is a screw on the top of the tstat housing you can open in order to bleed the system. I would then keep an eye out for any wet spots in the engine compartment, and on the floor. I would also check the oil to see if it isn't being lost through the head gasket. Coolant that is low, air in the system and/or poor coolant circulation will cause various sensors to get poor or inaccurate signals. One is the coolant temp sensor which gives a signal to the computer. If it is getting an inaccurate reading (due to air in the system, or low coolant, etc.), it may throw the computer off giving you a rough idle. The radiator fan and also temp guage can also be affected by inaccurate signals causing the rad fan to turn on later than it should or the guage to read higher or lower than true engine temp. Good luck.