Engine Overheated

Tiny
JMELLO
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 MAZDA MILLENIA
  • 116,000 MILES
1999 mazda millenia overheated, radiator was replaced, timing belt, and water pump replaced, new radiator cap. The thermostat was not replaced. Car is running hot after stop and go traffic. Fans are working. Now car has not heat. Purchased a leak detector kit to test for head gasket issue but kit says that thermostat needs to be open and coolant flowing through system. How can I know that the thermostat is open and coolant is flowing before doing the test. I was thinking to do the test before paying to replace the thermostat.
Wednesday, November 16th, 2011 AT 6:22 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,182 POSTS
Most thermostats are designed to open at 195 degrees F. You have to assume it is working or remove it and test.

If you want, when the engine is cold, remove the radiator cap and start the engine. Allow it to warm up. When the thermostat opens, you should see the coolant quickly flowing through the radiator
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Wednesday, November 16th, 2011 AT 6:28 PM

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