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1996 Ford Explorer

Tiny
JAZZYLEE
  • MEMBER
  • 1996 FORD EXPLORER
Heater problem
1996 Ford Explorer V8 Two Wheel Drive Automatic

I have a 96 ford explorer. A few days ago the temp. Was 16 degrees and my heat started blowing cold air. I was told there might be ice blocking flow to my heater core. Then I drove it when the temp was at 60 degrees and now my car runs hot when driven. It doesn't run hot while sitting just when I accelerate. Then someone said it could be a blown head gasket but there is no steam or water coming from tail pipe. What could this be?
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Wednesday, February 11th, 2009 AT 5:45 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
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Hi:
first, is the engine coolant freezing point well below 16 degrees? If so, I doube there was anything frozen. If not, there is a chance that head gasket is leaking. Has the coolant level changed? Is there evidence of coolant getting into the oil? Check around the intake gasket (corners in particular) and along the sides of the heads for evidence of a leak.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Friday, February 13th, 2009 AT 8:59 PM
Tiny
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There is not coolant in the oil and can't find evidence of a leak could it be the radiator or water pump even though they were replaced about a year ago, I really don't want to have to pay all this money for head gasket replacement and the repair shops ive called seem to be trying to take advantage because I'm a woman.
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Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 AT 1:42 AM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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Hi:
It could be the pump or the radiator, but usually there is evidence of a leak. What is the dealer saying?

Joe
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Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 AT 1:44 PM
Tiny
JAZZYLEE
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The mechanic says he really doesn't know what is going on because from what he can see the radiator and the water pump is good and still leaning towards the head gasket because there are still no leaks or evidence of coolant in the oil.
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Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 AT 8:07 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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With the engine cold, open the radiator and start the engine. If coolant flies out, then it's being pressurized by a bad head gasket.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Wednesday, February 18th, 2009 AT 8:23 PM
Tiny
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When I start the engine cold coolant doesn't fly out, it comes out slowly, and now the heater still doesn't get warm right away only when the engine begins to run hot. By the way thanks for all of your help!
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Thursday, February 19th, 2009 AT 4:28 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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You are welcome. That is why we are here, to help.

There is one way to check for the head gasket, and I think that is what it is. You need to do a comprssion test. Many parts stores will lend or rent the gauge.

Go to this site for directions:

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

I'm sorry to put you through all of this, but this is what it's all about.

Let me know what you find.

Joe
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Thursday, February 19th, 2009 AT 6:25 PM

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