AAAARRRRRGHHHHHHH!!!!!!!

[Adam Foote]

Hey guys, i need some help, ok my truck is running on the very hot end of the gauge, i dont know if its the thermostat, i hope so, cus thats cheap and easy.... however, the top of the radiator hose is hot, does that mean its letting coolant in? it also smells like maple syrup, however there is no visable leak...... please help

 

[Adam Foote]

.

 

[MyExpWork]

Your top radiator hose is supposed to be hot. Thats the hose that returns hot water from engine to the radiator for cooling. (You probably knew that) The top radiator hose being hot is a good thing. That normally means that the T-stat is opening, BUT, the T-stat could still be sticking (not opening until really hot). I had the same problem. Or it could mean that the radiator is not working properly.

The syrup smell...Could be leaking coolant because it is supposed to have a sweet smell. I have a 91 and my radiator is cracked between core and tank, but stays cool and doesn't leak very much.

I'd say try replacing the T-stat first. Quick and cheap.

Brian

 

[DeagleDave]

if that doesn't work try lookin at your fan and fan clutch. is it the original fan and clutch? if so you might wanna consider replacing them....10 blade fan at ford is around 40 and fan clutch at auto parts store was like 30 and no big deal to put on.

 

[Jarrett088]

Brings back memories.....Just recently happened to me.It turned out to be the T-stat. Not too bad to replace.The bolt on the bottom is the tricky one.
Tim

 

[DeagleDave]

seen a lot of posts about t stats recently is one at say discount auto parts just as good as one from ford or say napa?

 

[Jarrett088]

I replaced mine with a Stant(?) from Parts America. I think it was about $5. It fit like it was supposed to. No slop or odd shaped gasket. So far no problems.

Tim

 

[mrboyle]

I have had the best luck with Ford t-stats. I have used everything available, and have had the least trouble with the Ford.

 

[Jarrett088]

I almost forgot, there is a little opening (hole) on the t-stat, that needs to be in the 12 o'clock postion when you put the new one back in.
Tim

 

[MyExpWork]

I replaced mine with a stant and it sucked. So two months later I had to replace that one. I got a Jet 180 t-stat from performance products.com. It was 16.00 bucks as I remember.

Brian