QuestionQUESTION: 1995 Escort, 1.9, AT, A/C, approx. 140K miles.
Engine has been running hotter than normal running temp. Heater core provides plenty of heat indicating that the thermostat is not stuck closed. Confirmed no external or internal coolant loss. Cooling system recently flushed and refilled with 1 gallon of 50/50 coolant topped of with slightly more than a half gallon of 100% antifreeze. Coolant level has remained stable. Radiator cap gasket was slightly worn so cap was replaced to ensure proper cooling system pressure. Fan relay removed, tested as good, and returned. Fan fuse continuity test is good. However, fan is NOT operating 100% as it should. Fan does not appear to be kicking in at the proper temp and also kicks off with engine shut down. It does NOT run briefly after shut down as it used to. It DOES start immediately with the switching on of the A/C but, A/C or not, shuts off instantly with ignition cut off. Is there a sensor that could be interfering with proper cooling fan operation? If so, which one and where would it be located on a 1.9 engine? FYI, the water pump was routinely replaced about a year ago during a necessary timing belt replacement. No leak at the pump, the radiator, heater core, or any radiator or heater hoses. I've got to get the engine running temp back down to normal range. Any advice you could offer would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
ANSWER: I don't think you had a problem, the changes in fan operation is due to fixing you've done to the cooling system. As long as the car does not run hot, it's doing well. However, I would recommend that you change the to 100% antifreeze instead of 50/50...
Sam
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Thanks for the prompt response to my inquiry. Perhaps I am in error in thinking that the cooling fan should continue to run for a minute or so after engine shutdown. In my original Q I did fail to mention what the instrument panel temp gauge was reading. The gauge does remain within the minimum and maximum range designated by the "white" lines on the gauge. However, once the engine warms up the gauge runs consistently at about 75% of the "white" range where it once ran routinely no higher than about 40-50%. Should I be concerned or do you think the present running temp looks ok?
Thanks
AnswerYes, you should be concern. Especially since the normal operating temp was in the middle rang. However, I would recommend that you flush your system and replace it with 100% antifreeze instead of 50% water and 50% antifreeze. That should take of this problem.
Sam
