1996 Dodge Intrepid overheating and overflow

1996 DODGE INTREPID

HAPPYALBINOBUDDA

MEMBER
1 POST
FOLLOW

Engine Cooling problem
1996 Dodge Intrepid 6 cyl Automatic 235947 miles

I've taken the car to mechanics and we have changed the radiator, hoses, water pump, radiator cap and thermostate. I've cleaned the throttle sensor. There is no water in the oil, so there doesn't seem to be a blown head gasket. The mechanics have done pressure test and have blown out the radiator and hoses. The latest repair made was replacing the water pump and now the bottom (with the alternator on it) wobbles a good bit.

I am lost as to what to do next. It seems that pressure is building up and not flowing causing the car to overheat. I love this car but maybe it is time to retire it. Do you have any suggestions.

Mar 11, 2010 at 3:37 PM

CARADIODOC

CAR REPAIR CONTRIBUTOR
34,309 POSTS

I'm a little confused.

"the water pump and now the bottom (with the alternator on it) wobbles a good bit"

Do you mean the pulley wobbles? Which one?

How hot is the air from the heater? If it is cool, feel the two heater hoses. On some engines, coolant must flow through the heater core to open the thermostat.

A better test for a leaking head gasket is the "sniffer" test. Coolant is much more likely to show up in the exhaust than in the oil, and it's common for combustion gases to end up in the cooling system. White smoke from the exhaust is the giveaway for coolant entering the cylinder.

The sniffer test involves drawing air from the radiator or overflow reservoir through a tube with a special dark blue liquid. Combustion gases will cause the liquid to turn bright yellow. That would be your best proof of a leaking head gasket.

caradiodoc

Mar 11, 2010 at 8:51 PM

Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.