Temp indicator fluctuates, 1998 Venture

[auto4me]

My temp indicator (needle) fluctuates between low to high in the white range when cruising. Feel heat when needle is at or moving to low postion no heat when moving or at high position. Anybody had experience like this and what could be wrong? Help is appreciated.

Thanks.

[ricebike]

pressure test the system to check for leaks 1st step...

[89ltd]

check the coolant level in rad, also in overflow tank, make sure coolant is not being forced back into the overflow, which would indicate a blown head gasket.

[ricebike]

yup, when you rent the pressure tester from autozone for free, also test the radiator cap/ i had a bad one that will do the same thing 89ltd had stated... my cap was only holding 9psi (originally supposed to hold 16psi)

[auto4me]

The van finally overheats, coolant flowing back to the overflow bottle. Dealer diasgnosed it's the head gasket wanted 4,600.00 for a new engine. I said no way, brought it to a local shop to have the gasket replaced for about $1000.00.

[89ltd]

$1000 is a good price. Lots of labour there, did they quote you using new head bolts, they should have if there going to do a good job.

[auto4me]

Got a new quote yesterday. $1600.00 new set of gaskets, new injectors, regrinding the valves, new water pump. It's still $3000.00 less than the dealer wanted for a new engine. The shop told me after this, the engine should last another 100,000 miles if it does not overheat.

[kubanczyk]

HI,
ok at first check for leaking, coolant & oil, i had the same problem with my van , the Dealer diasgnosed was the same, but if you dont need to put more coolant & oil you can`t blame the head gasket. My car has some air in cooling system. I fix this in 20 min. Good luck
PS: sorry for my english