Overheating

[anthony1978]

Where do i start to figure out why my truck keeps overheating? I need to troubleshoot the fan clutch to see if that is what it is.

[jeffro25]

check tha thermostat first...

[anthony1978]

how can i check the thermostat to find out if this is the cause of the overheating.

[exploded99]

Originally Posted by anthony1978

how can i check the thermostat to find out if this is the cause of the overheating.

Well, they have to be taken out to be checked. And a new one is only 5 or 6 bucks. So people don't really check them, they just go ahead and put the new one in. ALWAYS replace your bypass hose when you replace your thermostat.

[anthony1978]

Bypass hose?

[exploded99]

Originally Posted by anthony1978

Bypass hose?

It bis attached to the thermostat housing that you have to remove. Small hose that has a 90 degree bend in it usually. Just ask for it at the parts store with the thermostat and get a couple of new hose clamps.

Might be smart for you to buy a manual for your car. At least look at one while you are getting parts. It will give you instructions for replacing your thermostat and bypass hose.

Bypass hoses are small, but if they break, you lose your coolant quickly and you are stuck on the side of the road. You will have to remove it to get to the thermostat. About 6 to 8 bucks. Sometimes you tear up the old one getting it to come off anyway.

[anthony1978]

thanks. i also have this wierd smell coming from the black tank behind the washer/coolant tank. Do you know what that tank is for

[exploded99]

Originally Posted by anthony1978

thanks. i also have this wierd smell coming from the black tank behind the washer/coolant tank. Do you know what that tank is for

I have a 99 V8 - I don't have a tank there on mine. Post a new message, put in your year, model and engine. Someone will know. Describe what the hoses that run to it look like, and if possible what they connect to on the other end.

[chr97]

I don't think it is actually a black tank that is usaully where your blower motor for your heater is and if you are getting a bad smell it is probably burning out. They way it has been described to me is that you coolant runs through the whole system, in one continuous loop.

[trucku]

When you get everything sorted out, don't forget to do a full cooling system flush. Use Prestone Super Flush. That will remove any buildup in cooling system. When mixing water with antifreeze, don't use tap water. Use distilled water, or buy 50/50 mix.