Ok, so my buddy has a 2001 Dodge Ram diesel. for the last 2 weeks the temp gauge won't ever budge. won't even come close to getting up to operating temp. I don't think it's the gauge, because even after 20 mins on the freeway the heater doesn't really warm up anymore. My first thought is that the thermostat isn't closing. I was hoping to get anyone else's thoughts first before i told him to tear it apart.
Thanks!

 

oh and btw I have very little experience with diesels.

 

Check coolant level. If that's ok, replace the thermostat.

 

Yep, but my money is on the thermostat being failed open (which is what they should do).

 

better than failing open though

 

oh, and just out of curiosity, (I haven't even popped the hood on his truck yet) where am i looking for the thermostat on this model (01 diesel ram).
is it pretty simple to get to?
I drive a 1970 chevy pickup myself and am always surprised by the difficulty in getting to things on newer models. I like old simple stuff.

 

Just follow the upper radiator hose to the engine. Under the fitting it attaches to, you will find the thermostat.

 

thanks again ^^

 

Leave a breadcrumb trail so you can find your way back out again.

 

Don't use breadcrumbs, Aims4squirells will eat them, and then where will you be?