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2004 Dakota over heating

Old Feb 21, 2021 | 09:14 AM
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Default 2004 Dakota over heating

Since 15 December 2020 I did the following

Timing Chain guide
Timing chain tensioner guide
Valve cover gasket set
Idler pulley
Timing cover gasket set
Throttle position sensor
Timing chain tensioner
Install the timing parts
Installed oil pan
Spark plugs
starter
alternator
replaced battery terminals

Now it tends to over heat and the heater doesn't blow hot air.

I filled the Radiator with coolant/anti freeze yesterday and just checked it and its empty. So I think I just answered my question LOL should I replace the radiator hoses and thermostat?
 
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Old Feb 21, 2021 | 10:42 AM
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If those hoses are original, it wouldn't hurt to change them.

Being low on coolant will give you overheating problems, and also heater performance issues.
 
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Old Feb 21, 2021 | 01:27 PM
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Originally Posted by icreepin
I filled the Radiator with coolant/anti freeze yesterday and just checked it and its empty. So I think I just answered my question LOL should I replace the radiator hoses and thermostat?
Don't just replace blindly. If you have a leak, rent a cooling system pressure tester from an auto parts store (free when you return it). That way you can pressurize the system without the distractions of heat, noise and moving parts. Stick some cardboard under the front, pressurize it to whatever psi is on your radiator cap and wait for the drips. Sounds like you have a big leak so you shouldn't have to wait too long.

Also, if it's a 4.7L, I suggest you don't drive it till fixed. Not that any engine likes overheating but the 4.7 has aluminum heads on a cast iron block.
 

Last edited by Dodgevity; Feb 21, 2021 at 04:38 PM.
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Old Feb 21, 2021 | 08:26 PM
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Originally Posted by Dodgevity
Don't just replace blindly. If you have a leak, rent a cooling system pressure tester from an auto parts store (free when you return it). That way you can pressurize the system without the distractions of heat, noise and moving parts. Stick some cardboard under the front, pressurize it to whatever psi is on your radiator cap and wait for the drips. Sounds like you have a big leak so you shouldn't have to wait too long.

Also, if it's a 4.7L, I suggest you don't drive it till fixed. Not that any engine likes overheating but the 4.7 has aluminum heads on a cast iron block.
And likes to drop valve seats when overheated........
 
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Old Feb 28, 2021 | 10:18 AM
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OK update I went to oriley and priced out the parts to do a complete change. Then the guy had me bring the Dakota up and actually i was an idiot as I only filled the over flow container. I completely filled the radiator direct.

Have drove it since the original post with 0 issues.

it started to over heat last night I checked and just completely filled the radiator and over flow container.

so the plan because I only drive the truck in the winter is replace the radiator and hoses and thermostat when the snow melts.

thanks for all of the help.

 
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