Overheating '87 Pickup

. . ===== ===== Overheating '87 Pickup Group: alt.autos.toyota.trucks Date: Sun, Dec 12, 2004, 10:45pm (CST-2) From: snipped-for-privacy@cascadeaccess.com (peteg)

I've got an '87 PU, 2WD that just started to overheat. Coolant seems to be good. Stays at a good temp. if I drive with the heat on all the time. Does this seem like the thermostat has gone bad? Any other ideas if this isn't it?

Thanks. pete ========== ==========

If what you've listed is the facts.....

check that the fan is working correctly, there's no restriction of air flow through the radiator, the water is circulating good through the flues in the radiator (no gunk buildup).

If alls well there, and your facts are true,..... then change your t-stat and recheck the symptom.

Sounds like a classic air flow or water flow problem, no major diagnostics there.

~:~ MarshMonster ~:~

We used to check a suspect thermostat by putting it a pan of water and bring it to a boil. You can monitor when it opens with a thermometer. It doesn't hurt to check a new one to make sure it's a good.

Jarhead

Sounds like the radiator is partially clogged up. To test it, drive and warm the truck up. Stop, and feel the front side of the radiator, and see if there are any spots that are cooler than other spots. If so, the radiator needs cleaning or replacing. If you can't reach the front side of the radiator, SHUT OFF THE ENGINE, and feel the back side. The engine runs cooler with the heater on, because, is a small radiator. I got an aftermarket radiator for our 84 pickupo for a little over $100. Good luck.

My '88 4runner starts to overheat about every 5 years...I assume it's because the radiator's are undersized or poorly designed. I've changed the thermostat several times hoping it would help but it always turned out to be the radiator needs overhaul. Perhaps it makes more sense to get an aftermarket model, then having your totoya one rebuilt.

Paul