1990 Mitsubishi Eclipse Overheating

DANTEDLEWIS

MEMBER
1990 MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE
2.0L
4 CYL
FWD
MANUAL
164,000 MILES

I have a 1990 mitsubishi eclipse gs non turbo 2.0L and it is running hot, I replaced all the radiator hoses and heater hoses, the thermostat, and the radiator cap. And I flushed out the radiator. And changed the antifreeze multiple times, every now and again the car will make a high screeching noise but goes away no longer than 30 secs. I purchased a waterpump, but it's going to cost a lot to get it replaced, and I just wanted to see if there are any other possible problems that would make it overheat?

2 Replies

CARADIODOC

MECHANIC
33,738 POSTS

Before you stick more parts on it, have it checked for a leaking cylinder head gasket. That involves drawing air from the radiator through a glass cylinder with two chambers partially-filled with a special dark blue liquid. If combustion gases are present, the liquid will turn bright yellow. Those gases can pool under the thermostat causing it to not open. Thermostats must be hit with hot liquid to open. Hot air won't do it.

If the head gasket is not leaking, look at when the overheating occurs. If it is only in city driving, be sure the radiator fan is turning on when the engine gets hot. If it is only at highway speeds, check the radiator's cooling fins to see if they're corroded. If they crumble when you touch them, they will not give up the heat to the surrounding air.