1988 Honda Civic overheating and no heat

1988 HONDA CIVIC
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MEDERNACHJ
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Heater problem
1988 Honda Civic Engine Size unknown Two Wheel Drive Manual 284213 miles
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Well lets see when I drive my car even down the block it starts to overheat. The temperature gauge goes right to the red and when I park, it stays on the red until I shut it off and let it cool down.. Also there is no heat coming out it is just cold air.. I changed the thermostat and still there is nothing its just all the same.. what could be the problem.. Bad thermostat? I was told that it could be the head gasket is that a possibility?? Any suggestions on what to do?
Dec 9, 2007 at 2:17 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Have the tests below done-for the no heat could be a clogged-up heater hose or heater core, also might be a bad new thermostat again.

Have it block and pressure tested-do the block first to pinpoint a combustion leaking into the cooling system or a gas analyzer to sniff for hydrocarbons at the radiator fill neck.

Pressure test: do not do a pressure test if there's leakage at the headgasket this might cause coolant into the cylinders and lock it up or bend a connecting rod if cranked thereafter. The headgasket should be repaired before doing the pressure test.

If the block and pressure test passes check the following: Thermostat,Pressure test the Rad. cap,Clogged radiator,Fan clutch,Radiator electrical fan,collaspe hoses,water pump.

Might also be caused by air lock try bleeding it

BLEEDING COOLING SYSTEM

Always bleed air from cooling system after replacing coolant. Set heater for maximum heat. Remove radiator cap. Loosen drain plug and remove drain bolt (if equipped) from engine block. Drain coolant reservoir. Fill coolant reservoir to MAX mark with 50/50 water-coolant mixture. Loosen bleed bolt and fill radiator up to base of filler neck. Close bleed bolt when coolant flows out without bubbles. Tighten bleed bolt. With radiator cap removed, start and operate engine to normal operating temperature. Add coolant if necessary and check for leaks.
Dec 9, 2007 at 3:31 PM
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