1997 Dodge Van Upper level speed overheating

TBEATON2

MEMBER
1997 DODGE VAN
6 CYL
2WD
AUTOMATIC
298,000 MILES

Iv'e replaced the water pump, thermostat, fan clutch, temperature sense devices, both radiator hoses, had the radiator flushed & cleaned and it still over heats over 50-55 mph and above. The radiator cap has also been replaced. Please help/advise!

Tim

5 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,133 POSTS

You have done just about everything. Is the engine running good other than the overheating? If it is, have them recheck the radiator for flow. Even though it was flushed, it could be still partially plugged and I want you to check the radiator hoses when it is overheating to make sure they are not collapsed.

Let me know what you find.
Joe

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Thursday, July 8th, 2010 AT 12:48 AM

TBEATON1

MEMBER
3 POSTS

Yes, the radiator is clog-free. And the upper and lower hoses are rock-hard when engine is hot. I've even taken out the thermostat. Is it possible that the water pump and/or bearings are stuck? Even though it was recently replaced, the engine has gotten extremely hot several times while out on the highway. And the Fan clutch, even though recently replaced, I don't here it kick in like it used to. Still confused and frustrated, Tim.

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Thursday, July 8th, 2010 AT 12:14 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,133 POSTS

Tim:
I doubt the clutch fan is the problem. If you told me it happened in stop and go traffic, I would say it could be the problem. Everything has been replaced. Also, I will assume the lower radiator hose isn't collapsing.

I hate to say it, but I feel you have one of two issues. Either the timing is an issue or you have a bad headgasket. (AFTER THOUGHT) Have you ever checked to make sure the catalytic converter isn't plugging?

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Thursday, July 8th, 2010 AT 5:35 PM

TBEATON1

MEMBER
3 POSTS

When do I check to see if the lower hose is/is not collapsing, when it's hot or cold? Also, how do I check to see if I have a bad/blown head gasket, and can I replace if so?
Thanks so much for all your help/advice!

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Friday, July 9th, 2010 AT 3:51 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,133 POSTS

Check the hose when the engine is overheating and running. As far as the head gasket, check motor oil to make sure coolant isn't mixing with it and the same with coolant. Make sure the oil isn't getting into the coolant. Also, do a visual inspection around the base of the heads to see if there are any leaks. If all looks good, you will need to do a compression test on the engine. Here are the directions for that. You will be checking to see if there is a cylender that has lower compression than the others.

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

You will need a compression gauge. Most parts stores will lend or rent them to you.

Let me know what you find.
Joe