Chrysler Repair: 99 sebring convert: no/minimal radiator fan action, radiator fan, temp gauge

Question
QUESTION: I read a couple entries about the radiator fan. Mine is not going on at all when the A/C is off. When A/C is on, the fan will go on for a few seconds and then shut off. The temp gauge doesn't go up past 1/2 way even though the engine is quite warm.

I just put in a new thermostat last weekend and have the scrapes on my hand to prove it.

I swapped the relays and fuses as well to see if any of those were contributing.

I have a sick feeling the water pump is not moving the water through the system.

Any help would be appreciated.

Dennis

ANSWER: Hi Dennis,
How are you certain that the engine is hot enough for the fan to be activated? The fan will not come on unless the temperature sensor says it is necessary. The gauge apparently doesn't think the engine is too warm. Are you getting any release of steam from the coolant filler bottle? If no, then I would not believe there is a problem here.
Roland
PS Please rate my answer, and where you find the question about a nomination of me to be 'volunteer of the month" consider a 'yes' response. Thank you

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hmm, the engine seems pretty hot but you're right, no steam out of the bottle. I'm just used to fans running more often than not at all like this car.

Should I change out the coolant sensor? Maybe it's toast and not turning on the fan?

Thanks for the help Roland

Answer
Hi Dennis,
If you have an ohmmeter you can check its accuracy. When the engine is cold the resistance across its terminals should be in the range of 7-13,000 ohms and then as the engine warms the resistance should drop down to the range of 1,000 ohms when it is at approximately 1/2 scale on the gauge. If it instead reads 2-3,000 ohm then it is presumably optomistic and thinking things are cooler than they are. When the resistance drops below 700 ohm the fans should typically start cycling on and off. That would be my approach to deciding whether to replace the temp sensor.
Roland
PS Thanks for the rating on my first answer. You are entitled to rate again if you would like to.