Quick question...

[03ExplorerSPT]

Why, when it is only 80 degrees out, is my coolant gauge already half-way to H ? In like 4-5 miles, the gauge went from the bottom line to the middle. Does this mean that when it gets to be around 100 that the gauge is going to be the the H?

1995ExplorerXLT

 

[Robb]

um.........it's a coolant temp. gauge, not an outside temp. gauge.

The middle of the gauge is the equivalent of about 180-190 deg.F. This is the temperature of the coolant in the system. This is the temp. that the engine was designed to operate at. Too cold, engine runs poorly and damage can occur at high RPMs. Too hot, well that's simply BAD.

Where the needle is on the gauge (varies with vehicle) should stay about the same whatever the temp. is outside.

 

[03ExplorerSPT]

I know it doesn't tell the outside temp. I'm just curious if that is high for only 80 degree weather. It usually never gets that high.

 

[TPLYNCH]

Halfway is where it should be..... since it's warmer out, doesn't take long for the engine to reach operating temp.

 

[BUCHVILLEMAN]

the 4.0 is an efficient motor, but it is small and its hauling a big load so it heats quickly naturally but it has a fairly large cooling system due to the extra needs. when the needle stops going up it means that the thermostat has kicked in and the coolant is flowing.