1997 Chrysler Sebring Temperature gauge fluctuating

Tiny
EMTGUY
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 CHRYSLER SEBRING
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • MANUAL
  • 147,000 MILES
Hi, I've just done some work on my car; changed the water pump, timing belt, and thermostat, and now the temperature gauge is fluctuating randomly back and forth from where it would normally be all the way up to the overheating mark. I have pulled the temperature sensor and cleaned it up and put it back in but it didn't help. It doesn't seem to make a difference what speed the car's at or if the a/c or heater are on or off. Both fans on the radiator are working and it's not low on coolant, can anyone help? Oh and the engine is a 420a, if that makes any difference.
Thursday, October 15th, 2009 AT 2:28 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,217 POSTS
Have you tried replacing the temp sending unit? Also, double check your work to make sure you didn't disconnect any body grounds.

Let me know what you find.
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Saturday, October 17th, 2009 AT 1:08 AM
Tiny
EMTGUY
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thanks for the reply. I pulled the sensor and put it in a cup of almost boiling water to test and it seemed fine. But then I thought about it and decided to take out the thermostat, problem solved! I guess I just got a defective one. I appreciate the advise though.
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Sunday, October 18th, 2009 AT 12:52 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,217 POSTS
My only concern is if you need heat where you live. You won't get it without the t-stat. Also, the engine will never properly warm up which can lead to other problems.

Let me know if you have other questions.
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Sunday, October 18th, 2009 AT 1:18 AM

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