Does a '96 have the "Check Gauges" indicator light that should turn on when you hit 250?

 

Another quick question... I let the truck sit and idle in the shop for about 30min's and it stayed at about 195-200* However the coolant in the radiator didn't move while the truck sat and idled. When we had the pan on the radiator filling it with coolant the coolant never moved even in the pan. Possible the radiator is junk and that could be causing this problem?

What would be the sure fire signs of a blown head/head gasket?? And the water pump does work!!

KY2500: When the truck hit 250 there was no lights that came on.... not even a check engine light.

 

What I was getting at is if the gauge/sending unit is bad, I would think the "check gauges" would be a backup. I really don't know enough about a '96 to say with anything definite. Are u still experiencing a leak? I can't tell from your posts. You might be able to see if you have the light by putting the key in the on position, not accessory.

 

It isn't unusual to find that some unscrupulous seller has disconnected the check engine light in order to mask a problem to a potential buyer.

 

As of right now no more leaks. Ran the truck for a little run this morning and it stayed at about 200*. No check engine light was not un-plugged. When I put the key in on position it shows the check engine light. I've checked for codes just in case and nothing which in this case is a good thing.

 

If I were you, I would take the stat out and see how it runs. If it runs cool, then that would eliminate a clog in the system. I would flush it anyway, just to say I did it. Also, VW&dodge had a similar problem regarding overheating. It turns out part of the problem was that the water pump bolts had loosen up allowing coolant to leak and air to enter. Hows the pressure in the system? Is the rad cap new? How about the fan clutch? Is it leaking? Is the belt doing it's job, or does it loosen up and slip? I'm having some problems with my cooling system myself. The gauge fluctuates and the system doesn't build up pressure, so I feel your pain. Let me know how it goes.
Here's the thread. It should give you some ideas, it's a good read!!!
https://dodgeforum.com/forum/2nd-gen...13-2008-a.html

 

Well just wanted to let you all know that I fixed the problem. Replaced the radiator and that baby don't even think about budging past 180* !! Finally shes fixed. Thanks to all who helped.

 

Glad to hear you fixed your rig. It's a good feeling to have it fixed, ain't it?! So was your rad clogged? I'm just curious because I'm battling a heating issue with my rig.

 

If you flushed your cooling system when your suppose to you won't have a problem right now. Give you an idea my 2002 Dodge the radiator is factory fresh after 145K miles and 6 years later.



You got to remember when coolant ages is become acidic or basic and start eating at the metals of the block and cooling system this gunk tends to build up in the core tube pluging it up...

So just flush your system every 30K miles (even if the coolant still looks good) and you'll never have a issue with you cooling system...

 

J415: Yup the radiator was clogged, I hope that you are able to get your rig fixed soon.
Thanks Mopar for the advice I appreciate it.