96 taurus overheating problem

[tomjanovich]

Ok, here is my problem

My girlfriends car is having a problem with overheating. it doesnt ever fully overheat, it seems that the fans are not engauging when they should be. it will start to get hot, then all the sudden when the needle gets near the top, it will shoot straight down again like the fans allt he sudden kick on.

so far ive replaced the thermostat, flushed the coolant checked for leaks and loose wires.

Im not all that good with electrical, so im confused. the next thing im going to try is the temp sensor and the fan connections or soemthing.

anyone have any suggestions.

thanks for any help
Joe

[KimMG]

Sounds like you are on the right track.

[pdowg881]

oil

[tomjanovich]

oil?

I dont see how oil is the culprit.
its been changed regularily
thnaks kim
Joe

[KimMG]

Low oil level or if you are over due for a oil change (contaminated, dirty) can cause the motor to run hot.

[tomjanovich]

oh ok,
no, I change the oil often.
thanks

[Willyum]

You check the flow of the radiator? I had been using my local tap water mix when I changed coolant and the mineral deposits obstructed the core in 2 years. They can't be flushed out, had to replace the radiator.

[joe92k1500]

Asuming the temp guage is correct, when it shoots down all of a sudden, its usually air in the system or not enough pressure. you may want to try replacing the cap on the coolant tank. This may be worn and not allowing the system to get to the correct system pressure.

[tomjanovich]

Thanks, Ill try that stuff.
Joe