02 explorer runs hot

[willwalt]

I have an 02 explorer, v-8 that runs hot. I replaced the thermostat and thought that was it. it will idle for ever and run cool and you may go 30 or 40 miles or more then all of a sudden the temp. gauge pegs out and you're boiling over. of course it boils out the coolant, you let her cool down, refill and youre good for a day or two. there are no leaks unless it's so minor it drys on the block and I can't see it. hoses seem to pressurize good. this appears to be one of those things the dealer would burn me on, you know, lets try this or maybe it's that. even if I can't do the repair myself I would like to have some idea before I roll in there blind. any suggestions. thanks

 

[Foo392]

Is your coolant clean? Check and make sure your fan is spinning okay and not seizing or anything, I do believe that the 02's fan is belt powered. Make sure to look in front of your radiator and see if there is anything blocking airflow, also be sure you're looking at the radiator and not the condenser, which is in front of the radiator. And don't forget to check your water pump, it could be stuck or something.