Hey there- </P>


It's a '99 quad cab 4x4, I elected for the manual trans becuase of plans to tow as well as some info I got about automatic trans overheating problems. </P>


I've had my truck since it was new. I've treated it well but still treat it like a truck- which is to say it's been off road some and it's towed a boat quite a few times... carried a few bikes and so on. All of what it's been asked to do, it has pulled through like a champ. </P>


Now it's got a few years on it and a couple problems are beginning to manifest themselves. One's (irratic idle) has been present since the truck was new. That problem has been more pronounced recently. It's a concern. The other one is of greater concern to me. </P>


Oil temperature spike: I don't lose oil pressure at all so I doubt it's the pump. Ususally happens when I'm in traffic or at a light. The manual says when this happens to drop it out of gear and raise the RPMs until the temp goes down, which works, but this has been happening with greater frequency over the last couple months. Something will have to be done soon I'm sure, but I'm not sure what. This morning when I was on my way into work it happened while driving steadily along at about 35-40 MPH- (2300-2500 RPM). </P>


I tend to do whatever I can by myself, I'm not anti-mechanic or cheap, I'm just aware of the fact that no one cares about my vehicle as much as I do. Any suggestion would be greatly appreciated. </P>


Thanks!!! </P>

 

Have you checked to see if the Thermostat is sticking?

~Amanda</P>

 

Yep- that's got to be it... </P>


Starts blowing cool air (with the heat on) just before the temp spikes. Thanks, winter for making that easier. </P>


I gota replacement today and will go about trying to replace it this weekend. Any tips? </P>

 

I will have to sayt that I have always been disappointed with the rough idle in my 5 speed. I had it in to the dealer several time to cure it when under warranty. According to the dealer as well as D-C the 5 speeds will be a little morerough at idle in comparison to the automatics. </P>


This was due to the torque converter being fluid (ATF) filled and dampaning the vibration better than the solid cast iron flywheel of the 5 speed. It makes sense I guess. </P>


Eric</P>