New guy needs some help fixing his fiancee's overheating 93.

[svtcobras]

Hi new guy here.

My girl has a 93 Camry with 160k that will idle fine but once you put load on the motor, the temp gauge climbs very quickly. I notice the fan speed does not increase as the motor gets warmer. What are some things I should check first? I can literally let the car idle for an hr, but if I drive it 1/4 mi the temp gauge climbs to the point of having to shut it down.

Thanks for any help in advance.

steve

[Mister_Perkins]

While Idling confirm your themostat is opening. A closed Thermostat will cause your car to quickly over-heat. Also check to make sure the cap is holding pressure (Upper and lower lines should be firm to the touch when hot). If they are soft, replace the cap. You can also get the cap pressure checked easily at an automotive store (autozone, advanced auto, etc..)

If idling for a pro-longed time, Thermostat opens, its circulating but fans dont kick on, check to make sure your Fan switch is working properly. Should kick on after 199 Degrees Fahrenheit. You have Fan Relays, you can check them as well. Check the Switch at the bottom of the radiator. It should have no continuity when cold and continuity when hot (hint: It may be easier to remove the passenger side fan to get to this)

[carsrus]

The fan speed is not supposed to change. Its either on or off.

Sorta sound like a bad water pump that cannot keep up the flow at higher RPM. Or blown head gasket but theres plenty to test/change before coming to that conclusion.

Is it leaking coolant at all?

First do a flush and fill + change the thermostat and upper and lower hoses. While your doing the thermostat you will be able to see the water pump impeller. If its worn down you'll be able to see.

[71Corolla]

Originally Posted by carsrus

The fan speed is not supposed to change. Its either on or off.

It could be the V6, which has a variable speed hydraulic fan. But yes first thing is to check the coolant level.

[svtcobras]

Thanks for the quick reply guys. I will check out the coolant level, look for leaks, check rad cap, and radiator hoses tomorrow when I have the car. It is a V6 and does have a hydraulic fan.

[Avatar]

Sounds like your fans may be faulty. if your system detects a problem, your fans should be running full blast.