possible causes
clogged radiator
low coolant level
bad thermostat
water pump impeller(common on fords)
blown head gasket which may be an issue with you as it sounds like you are driving it overheated

Roy

Answered by ASEMaster6371 (expert)
24,854 answers provided

coolant level is fine, am not driving it overheated as i monitor temp gauge and turn air conditioner off and pull over when it heats up also there isn't any water in the oil nor does it puff white smoke out of the exhaust when I crank it, why would the thermostat work when the a/c is off and malfunction when the A/C is on? How would I check a bad impeller on the water pump?

Response from jerryshows
1 question asked

thermostat can be partially open but i doubt it.

water pump would have to be removed to verify impeller.
leak down test will confirm head gasket

my gut is a bad radiator.

Roy

Answered by ASEMaster6371 (expert)
24,854 answers provided