CK5
Register an account today to become a member! Once signed in, you'll be able to participate on this site by adding your own topics and posts, as well as connect with other members.

Identify this problem please

cbbr

1 ton status
GMOTM Winner
Joined
Jul 17, 2004
Posts
14,680
Reaction score
3
Location
High velocity, Low altitude
Truck is overheating at idle. Runs about 210 degrees at 70 mph in 80 degree weather. Theromostat seems to be ok (water feels like it is running). There is a rattling noise (very slight) coming from the fan area. Whats up?
 
Overheating

You may have a bad clutch fan, no fan shroud, your thermostat may only be opening part of the way, the antifreeze to water mixture may be incorrect, or you may have a small leak in your system causing you not to have the correct coolant level.
 
problem wouldnt be fan or shroud with overheating at 80mph
plenty enough air moves thropugh a radiator at driving speeds to keep it cool, the fan mainly is needed at lower speeds and sitting still

does it over heat with truck sitting still ?

does system build pressure and hold it ?
 
Shroud is good. Coolant level is good. Holds presure just fine. Only overheats when standing still. I'm thinking that it is a problem with the fan.
 
cbbr said:
Shroud is good. Coolant level is good. Holds presure just fine. Only overheats when standing still. I'm thinking that it is a problem with the fan.

With the engine OFF....reach in and try to spin the fan blade.

If the clutch is working properly you should feel resistance and it should not just "spin" freely. If the clutch has failed the fan will "freewheel" even at idle (it's supposed to only disengage the fan from spinning at higher vehicle speeds)

That would certainly explain overheating at low speeds/idle. :cool1:
 
If it runs 70mph with a water temp of 210F and a ambient air temp of 80F then you may have a worn impeller blade inside the water pump and/or excessive rust buildup in the water jackets.

I'm surprised the heads have not cracked yet...... :blush:

Overheating at idle could be the pump/thermostat/fan clutch/shroud...etc

i run a thermostatically controlled electric fan and a modified thermostat which is just a regular thermostat with the spring and valve removed (restrictor plate or circle track thermostat) :)
 
Replaced the fan clutch. Quick and easy job. The old one was completely shot. Works like a charm now - idled for 30mins in 75 degrees (in the sun, w/ tha A/C on) and stayed cool (180 or so).

I'm still amazed at the basic stuff that I have to learn. One broken part at a time. Thanks again for the help.
 
Top Bottom