Diagnosis

[zephram22]

Just got my 2002 3.5 back from the mechanic.

Diagnosis: Faulty thermostat, failing AC compressor bearings

$50 for the thermostat & housing
$640 for the new AC compressor

They didn't see any unusual leaks, said everything I noticed in the past was old residue. No bad gaskets. But, the car is running at around 240 degrees.

Guess it could be worse, no? At least there were no combustion gases in the coolant, and no coolant in the oil.

Have to wait another four days before they can get the parts. I got to find a rental vehicle, and fast.

[tjm]

at least now you know

[zephram22]

Originally Posted by tjm

at least now you know

Yeah, it's nice not to be wondering. But, I've still got some engine noise. Lifters seem a little loud. But, it may be because the car is running so hot. The mechanic unfortunatly, has not had a lot of experience with auroras. So, he can't be sure whether or not other parts of the engine (besides therm. and compr.) need to be replaced. It may also be just because I have the acoustic cover removed.

I am somewhat concerned that my thermostat went so soon after purchasing the car. I'm also surprised that an overheating engine led to all my numerous problems. I seriously need to study this engine in detail. it is nothing like anything I've every owned.

I did order service manuals for the car. They came today. And, surprisingly, just like the person on ebay said, they are indeed the very manuals that were on the factory floor when the car was assembled. There's 2 volumes, both are spiral bound and in full color. Heck, I'm not even sure if the service manuals that I would have been able to get from the dealer would be this detailed. These things so every nut and bolt, right down to showing me how to completly disasemble the ingnition cylinder, and even how to cut keys. They were a freakin steal at only $40.

[zephram22]

Got the car back.

The AC system cost about 900 dollars after parts and labor. Thermostat was around 100 dollars after P&L. There were a few other things too. Decided to flush all my fluids. Total cost: 1,300 dollars. They didn't bleed my coolant system at all. Still have the gurgle, and when I opened the hood, the surge tank was overflowing. Taking it back tommorrow maybe...that is, if Katrina doesn't swamp Auburn.

[zephram22]

Grr....

The thermostat that I had replaced 36 hours ago has already gone bad. The car overheated tonight worse that it ever has. Also, the check engine light when on when it overheated this time. PLUS, it felt like I was losing my power steerring and power brakes.