1991 Dodge Spirit Radiator Fluid

1991 DODGE SPIRIT
130,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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MARK54
I have a 1991 Dodge Spirit with 130,000 miles. I replaced the radiator about 3000 miles ago promptly after overheating. Now it is overheating again. Conditions: The is no fluid in the resevoir when the engine is cold. After running the engine for a mile down the road the heat spikes and stays hot. When i check the radiator the resevoir is full. The fluid has brown bits in it and returns to the radiator when the engine cools again. The coolant was also flushed when the radiator was replaced. I was thinking it was either the thermostat or water pump is malfunctioning. Your imput is appreciated, as the nearest mechanic is 65 miles away.
Jul 1, 2009 at 10:52 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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Chances are the thermostat is the problem, but other things can cause it. Make sure there is no coolant mixing with the engine oil. Also, I would start with the thermostat. Here is a how to for replacing it and checking the old one.

https://www.2carpros.com/dia/test_thermostat.htm

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Joe
Oct 17, 2009 at 12:16 AM
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