[doinou]

Ok here's my problem. If I drive for along period of time, like I work 55 miles from my house. By the time I get like 15-20 miles. My temp gauge starts reading almost into the red. However if I get stuck in traffic (stop and go) my temp goes down to normal. I change out the clutch fan and problem still there. Also when I get home and temp almost showing in red. I don't hear or see andy water boiling over. Does this mean my gauge is broke or what? Also I tried to buy a new temp sensor at auto zone and all they show for mine is a single unit with 2 plug-ins. Mine just has the single plug-in by the thermostat.

 

[doinou]

it could be that your radiator is partially plugged up and not letting enough coolant through or it could possibly be the water pump itself is on the verge of failing not leaking yet but not able to keep up with the engine it cant maintain the amount of coolant needed to properly cool the engine
i dont know this is just a couple thoughts i had that may be possible

Larry

I was thinking it might be my radiator too, but why would the temp go down when I was sitting in traffic. I just rebuilt the motor like 2 yrs ago and the water pump looked good.

 

[doinou]

Use a thermometer to check the coolant temp at engine idle and compare with the gage indication.

If the engine overheats at hwy speeds look for a restriction in the cooling system. At hwy speeds the engine needs more cooling then at idle. Check for a clasped radiator hose, plugged radio, stuck thermostat or one that does not open all the way. Might try flushing the radiator.

Thanks for the info. I'm gonna change my termostat first. I did change out the bottom red hose when I put the motor in.. I'm thinking the rad is bad though because it did sit up for awhile before i got it. I also did try a rad flush but was think I might need to just go get it rodded out.