Diagnostic Strategies
ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM OVERHEATINGEstablish what driving conditions caused the complaint. Abnormal loads on the cooling system such as the following may be the cause:
^ prolonged idle
^ very high ambient temperature
^ slight tail wind at idle
^ slow traffic
^ traffic jams
^ high speed
^ steep grades
Driving techniques that avoid overheating are:
^ Idle with A/C off when temperature gauge is at end of normal range.
1. TRAILER TOWING:
Consult Trailer Towing section of owners manual. Do not exceed limits.
2. RECENT SERVICE OR ACCIDENT REPAIR:
Determine if any recent service has been performed on vehicle that may effect cooling system.
This may be:
^ Engine adjustments (incorrect timing)
^ Slipping engine accessory drive belt(s)
^ Brakes (possibly dragging)
^ Changed parts. Incorrect water pump, or pump rotating in wrong direction due to belt not correctly routed
^ Reconditioned radiator or cooling system refilling (possibly under filled or air trapped in system).