Serious temp guage fluctuation

[raptorforme93]

Ok so the temp guage in my hoe is going back and forth from the 1/4 tick mark to the 3/4 mark from when I start it up to when I stop. Its a constant back and forth in a smooth continuous motion and it goes from hot to cold and vise versa probably every 20 or so seconds. Sometimes it goes up past the 3/4 mark and then drops down, but it never reaches 260. Where should I start to fix this? I thought I noticed it happening a few times a while back but it was never consistent like it is now. Also, just as this started happening the heat started messing up and im not sure if the two are related? As the truck is running the heat will kind of come and go, but it never gets as hot as it used to. Its freezing balls outside and heat would be nice. Haha. All help is appreciated!!

 

[07Burb]

I start with a tstat replacement assuming you're confident that it's not simply a gauge issue.

 

[raptorforme93]

Im not confident that it isnt that though. Haha. Considering how cheap a tstat is I guess Ill just go ahead and replace it. Where is it located on the engine and how do I change it? Sorry, Im still learning all the basics as they go out on me. Haha. Are there any tests I can do to rule out any possibilities?

 

[retorq]

Heat is messing up like no heat/heat?? That's usually a sign of low fluid levels ...

 

[07Burb]

Tstat is right on top. Follow the upper radiator hose from the radiator to the motor and it's there. You'll have to remove that end of the hose (coolant will spill out ) and your tstat will be right there.

 

[raptorforme93]

Yes, the heat blowing out of the vents is warm but not hot, and it kind of also fluctuates in temperature. I will take a look at the radiator fluid tomorrow

---------- Post added at 10:34 PM ---------- Previous post was at 10:32 PM ----------

Ok thanks 07 burb! And Ill be buying the part from oreillys and online they asked what temperature range I need. Any ideas there?

 

[07Burb]

180 degree

A faulty tstat will not be able to regulate your fluid temp sufficiently therefore causing your heat temp to also fluctuate and/or not get hot enough.

 

[raptorforme93]

Thanks! And I thought that could be the case, but I wasnt sure. Haha. I HOPE thats the case. Otherwise it'll add a whole new meaning to blue balls...

 

[SunlitComet]

Stock is 195 degrees. putting in a 180 without a tune may just burn you gas away and cause issues.

 

[domin8]

^^^ What he said. And, I agree with 07burb. I think it's the thermostat.

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