can't figure out overheating

[swampfox712]

Hey all,

I have a 2000 4.7 V8 Dakota, has about 87k miles now.

First started overheating about a month or so ago. No big deal -- it was a hot day, I was driving up over a 8,000ft mountain pass. Replaced the water pump and thermostat.

Ran good for about a week, then started overheating again. Turns out the AC pulley was bad. Replaced that.

Ran good for about three days, and now it's overheating AGAIN. Any thoughts on stuff I HAVEN'T replaced yet?

And please don't tell me I need a new radiator ... I've put over $1,000 of parts into this truck that I JUST BOUGHT in May ....

[troy1]

radiator is a possibility how about having some air trapped in the coolant system. not to familiar with the 4.7 does any one know if the 4.7 has bleeders for the cooling system?

[Dakota00]

Here's a pic, where the bleeder is.
You can see the screw hole between the alt and steering reservior.

[knox 000]

have you had the rad cap pressure tested. it may be as simple as buying a new cap. what temp thermostat did u use might be too hot. if not im sorry too say its most likley the rad.

[theFREAKnasty82]

also, make sure you fan clutch hasn't gone bad as well. A faulty fan clutch will cause the motor to overheat in addition to what everyone else has stated.

[robert341]

knowing that you have already changed the water pump you may want to check the flow especially if was a reman pump