Two more New Guy questions....

[CosmosM3]

1. The temp. gauge fluctuates by about 1/4 of the gauge while driving between bumper to bumper city traffic and then getting on the highway. Is this a sign of a bad thermostat? I'm guessing so.

2. My main seal is beginning to leak more often since I've started driving this car more often after sitting for months. Obviously worn seals. Is there a additive/sealer anyone would reccomend for the auto tranny? Or is that a bad idea and I should just live with it?

I changed out the spark plugs yesterday. The old ones were the originals...193k miles!!! No oil on them or anything, just a little rust and burn marks. That thing hums for a car with that many miles.

 

[Magicfan25]

im pretty sure when a thermostat goes bad it just gets flat out stuck, all the way open or all the way closed depending on if its a failsafe or not. If not a failsafe type, it would just overheat, especially in bumper to bumper. If it is a failsafe thermostat, it would take the vehicle longer than normal to warm up.

 

[TPLYNCH]

That fluctuation could be a sign of a bad radiator cap. I'd replace that (cheap fix) first and see if there is any change. As for the tranny, search for member Operahouse and read up on the threads he's responded to regarding the A4LD. I think there is also a thread about how to replace the seals yourself too.

 

[MONMIX]

It is normal for a temp guage to fluctuate to some degree. The coolant IN the engine gets hot then the t-stat opens up and the cooler coolant comes in. It is a cycle.