Started dieseling real bad then overheating

Tiny
DAVID SEARCY2
  • MEMBER
  • 2001 CHRYSLER PT CRUISER
  • 4 CYL
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 3,086,000 MILES
Dieseling bad then overheating. Changed thermostat, did okay for about fifteen miles then started doing same exact thing. Car ha a lot of miles just trying to get it by for couple more weeks. Any tips, suggestions greatly appreciated.
Wednesday, March 6th, 2019 AT 6:10 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,170 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

When you say it started doing it again, are you referring to overheating? If so, you could have a couple different issues. First, keep in mind that an extremely hot engine can diesel when turned off.

I have questions. First, does the car only overheat in stop and go traffic or does it also do it at highway speed? If only in town driving, confirm the cooling fans are turning on when it starts getting hot.

Next, if it also happens at highway speed, confirm that the radiator isn't plugged. When the engine is cold, remove the radiator cap and confirm the coolant is full. Start the engine and allow it to warm up with the cap off. When it gets to operating temperature, the coolant should be circulating, If it isn't, then try flushing the radiator. Most parts stores offer an inexpensive flush kit.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/engine-cooling-system

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-flush-and-refill-all-cars

If that isn't the issue and coolant flows, then I need you to check for a possible head gasket issue. Follow this link.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/head-gasket-blown-test

If you could, try these tests and let me know the results.

Take care,
Joe

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Thursday, July 1st, 2021 AT 1:34 PM

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