Weird heating issue

[snowplow]

Hi fellas, first post here. I have done a bunch of searching but I cant find a situation like this.

Our heater just barely warms up even after extended drives. I also noticed that the temp gauge shows dead cold as well.

I cant think of anything that would make them act that way together?

Water flow issues, bad water pump, clogged radiator or heater core, low water, would all show hot not cold.

Anybody have any ideas for me?

Thank you!

 

[acrx7]

Hi Snowplow , I had the same issue , I replace the thermal stat and wola ! problem solved , if you never replace it , you should and while you at it if not done yet replace the antifreeze too, make notice of the orientation of it and the little hole hope this helps

 

[snowplow]

Thanks! That crossed my mind but I thought thermostats typically failed closed so you overheat?

 

[bobflood]

Actually, most thermostats do fail open - they are designed that way since that failure mode is less likely to cause damage to the engine. Good luck.

 

[snowplow]

Great thanks again guys!

 

[MillerAPF97XLT]

Sure SOUNDS like either a failed-open 'stat or no 'stat at all, snowplow. No resistance to free flow of coolant through the system = it's not going to absorb much heat from the engine. And what it does absorb will be dissipated by the radiator much faster and sooner than the heater core. This will also affect engine performance and economy - neither will be as good as when the ECM sees normal operating temperature. Let us know what you come up with. Chris:exp:

 

[toypaseo]

I had the barely warm heat problem right before I got possession of my Explorer. I had the thermostat replaced, along with a flush and fill of the radiator. Plenty of heat after that.