Overheating (again!)

Engine, transmission, rear-end, driveline, fuel system etc..
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GiS
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Overheating (again!)

Post by GiS »

Hey guys!

Been slowly crossing things off the to-do list on my 66 D100 (318 Poly) and one of the last remaining issues is a possible overheating problem, I say possible because I am not boiling over or blowing steam but am getting a little too far to the "right side" of my temp gauge!

Here is the current info:
- Poly 318 with stock radiator
- Stock fan shroud is in place, including rubber "mat" along the top of the radiator itself (acting as an air dam)
- Fan itself is in good shape (I think its a 5 blade?) with no signs of slipping etc
- I ASSume that the Thermostat is also in good shape as it does open and close with a full heat cycle.
- I have used my laser temp gun to get a few different reading, comparing upper and lower rad hose temps, and looking for any hot or cold spots,

At one point I suspected a failing or weak water pump, however if I bring the truck up to operating temp with the radiator cap off, I can see fluid moving ... it's not a violent movement of fluid, somewhat passive actually but fluid is moving none the less.

It may also be worth pointing out that I was only getting a 7 or 8 deg (celcius) variance between the upper and lower radiator hoses, a quick check of the surface of the intake itself shows approx 85-90 deg celcius after a spirited drive around town.

Given the above, what you be your suggestion? I was thinking of taking the radiator in to have it rodded out, not sure if swapping thermostats would be of any benefit but I guess I am not opposed if it makes sense?

Thanks guys!

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dodgeboykim
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Re: Overheating (again!)

Post by dodgeboykim »

When you suspect it is overheating , Stop truck and leap out, Yank hood up and squeeze rad hose. If hard and unyielding then its a good chance your a bit hot. If you can squeeze it easily then look to inaccurate gauge. :thinking
My truck is younger than me.
66 W100. 70 D 500 , 69 Hiab Speed Loader. 96 Ram 3500 Club Cab Cummin's 5 spd. 97 Ram 1500 Club Cab 5.9 gas auto. 83 W200 LB Propane 360 auto 09 Yammy Rhino 700.

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Hobcobble
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Re: Overheating (again!)

Post by Hobcobble »

If you don't know the service history of the rad, you might want to get it
tested and, if necessary, rodded or re-cored. The stock cap would be a 7psi.
Have you ever flushed out the engine block? If not, I'd suggest it. :2cents
If you do not know when the last thermostat was installed, I'd suggest putting
a new one in. Is your fuel gauge accurate? If not, the temp and fuel gauge
are affected by the voltage limiter that is an integral part of your fuel gauge.
You might want to make sure you have the correct voltage [5V :thinking ]
running to the temp gauge. Lastly, you might check your engine timing.
That will affect the operating temperature. Some use a light.... some use
a vacuum gauge.... :idea :Thumbsup
John

PS.... you could also take the thermostat and throw it into a pot of hot
water along with a temperature gauge to see when it actually opens up. :idea

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