QuestionI recently bought a 1995 Plymouth Voyager, 3.0 liter engine. Now that weather is cold, I had noticed that the engine takes a long time to get temperature gauge to lower quarter of temp. range and that slightly warm air is all the heat I get. Recently replaced radiator & have new 50/50 antifreeze mix. On a highway trip, the temp gauge went down to the coldest setting on gauge, as if car was just cold started. When we slowed in traffic, the temp went to the lower quarter point on gauge. Back at high speed, the needle went to the lowest left hand point on gauge. Would appreciate any help with solving problem before having to pay mechanic. Thanks!
AnswerHi Paul,
I suspect that either the thermostat is stuck open or not even there. It should be in the hemispherical housing on the top front of the engine where the upper radiator hose attaches. I would buy a new one and a gasket for the housing (which may or may not come with it).
Drain off and collect 2 quarts or so of the coolant from the lower left corner of the radiator. Then remove the housing screws. Remove the old thermostat if it is there, noting its position. Then clean the gasket interface surfaces. Install the thermostat (spring side down, with the air vent in the flange toward the front, it is important that is sits flat in the indentation; there is a metal casting in the hole and the thermostat has to be positioned so as not to clash with that casting), wet the new gasket and install it along with the housing, tighten screws to about 9 foot-pounds), then refill collected coolant in radiator/and the overflow bottle
That should get you more heat. Recheck to be sure you don't have any leaks.
Roland
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