Well, my 2000 series 2 just started to overheat. The coolant levels are fine. After awhile, it cools off...so I am pretty sure it is a bad thermostat. Also, the heater does not work, but then it works once the engine temp falls. Can you tell me:


1. Is there a cross reference, or common vehicle the thermostat is from?
2. I am almost positive it is the thermostat, but should I look for anything else.

 

It is not you t/stat, you are very low on coolant, that is why your heater doesn't work.
Do you know how to bleed the air out of the engine, have you been having to add coolant?
You need to get the coolant level back up and then go straight to your favorite shop and have them pressure test the coolant system to see where your coolant is going. If you haven't seen any leaking then you most likelikely have a bad head gasket.
Do not drive it till you can get it to a shop so your don'y trop a sleeve and loose the engine.
Mike

 

Interesting. To bleed the coolant, dont I just add it and leave the heater on full? I added a little coolant. I don't see any leaks, but it seems like I can sort of smell a hot coolant smell. I could replace the gaesket. What do those usually cost for the parts?

 

Do you really think it could be the head? Once it cools, it doesn't do it again. To me, it seems like the thermostat is malfunctioning...at least I hope. I did add more coolant, but the heater still does not work. It seems like a blockage. I nevr saw this hapen until 2 days ago it was like 5 degrees for a couple days.

 

I'll bet my near 30 years in the service business it is not a t/stat. If it were, it would not effect the heater.
If you want to send me your tele number and a good time to call you on Sunday, i would be glad to walk you thru what you need to do.
If it is the head gasket, you are looking in the $2500 range if you have a shop do the work.
Let talk tomorrow and I will help you bleed the system.
Mike
mikeljacobs@comcast.net

 

Hey Mike, I appreciate your help and experience. You can call me anytime tonight or tomarrow. My number is 316-210-5537. I don't mind doing the work. I have done them, before. The parts are not expensive are they? It looks like they are $20 each. Thanks again, Ian

 

A full head gasket set will run from around $150 to $280 depnding on wheter you buy a factory set or aftermarket set. Plus you need to buy all new head bolts.
I'll call you in the morning, what state do you live in and what is a good time to call you?
Mike

 

I live in kansas. call anytime. thanks, ian