November 13, 200520 yr Since It has been cold recently, I've been noticing a few new things. 1.) Takes the temp gauge a while to register as warm. 2.) Even after it IS warm, it tends to only drop the idle (900) to a warm idle (450), after I come to a complete stop for a few seconds. 3.) Harder shifting at times. Seems to be smoother when warm. It also seems to be a result of #2. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.
November 13, 200520 yr AT or MT? what gear oil are you running? changed your thermostat anytime recently? think it's due? this may be a good place to start Jamie
November 13, 200520 yr Author AT or MT? what gear oil are you running? changed your thermostat anytime recently? think it's due? this may be a good place to start Jamie AT. I have a feeling that the thermostat has not ever been changed. Lucky me. Would that cause the issues I have described?
November 13, 200520 yr AT. I have a feeling that the thermostat has not ever been changed. Lucky me. Would that cause the issues I have described? If it were stuck open it would. You will also suffer worse gas mileage as well as possibly increase carbon buildup in the engine. Even if you have a mechanic change it, it should not be expensive.
November 13, 200520 yr Author If it were stuck open it would. You will also suffer worse gas mileage as well as possibly increase carbon buildup in the engine. Even if you have a mechanic change it, it should not be expensive. How would I know if it were stuck open?
November 14, 200520 yr How would I know if it were stuck open? Well, the temp gauge would indicate lower than normal. In very cold weather, the heater may be noticeably less warm. If the thermostat is removed, it may be seen to be open (or at least, not closed all the way). There MAY be ways to look for water movement in the radiator or use an infrared thermometer to take some reading s and compare to a 'normal' vehicle. Most folks just look down one day - see the temp is cooler than normal, throw in a new thermostat - voila! problem solved. On many cars, changing it out is the same easy labor as inspecting it and, since the part is cheap, after you put one in, if the problem remains - you've at least eliminated the primary (as far as I know the ONLY) cause for lower temps in a car. I suppose there is a remote possibilty the gauge began reading incorrectly - so having a mechanic take a look at the problem is not out of the question. But, it could be an easy DIY project.
November 14, 200520 yr should be a part of your maintence schedule just like plugs, wires, oil, and belts.
November 14, 200520 yr How would I know if it were stuck open? Start the car up after its been sitting over night (cold) , open the hood and feel the top rad hose . If the stat is stuck open it should start to feel warm to the touch with in a few minutes of running SEA#3
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