96 sable temp fluctuation - Ford Forums

pittmike · 03-20-2008, 09:40

On my 1996 Sable (Vulcon motor) I have a odd thing happening with the temp guage. It seems that the temp will go somewhat high and they cool down pretty quickly. Almost as if the t-stat will open all the way or not at all? There does not seem to be a middle ground.

Is there some variable control on the t-stat or other part that may be failing? Anyone seen this behavior? Coolant etc. levels are ok.

Thanks,
Mike

SHOZ123 · 03-22-2008, 22:10

Probably the water pump impeller is corroded down to nothing.

pittmike · 03-30-2008, 19:27

I swapped the water pump even though the one I had on was fine. Previous owner must have replaced it recently. The therostat change solved the fluctuation temp and overheat on the dash guage.

Still no heat though. As far as I can tell right now all the hoses get hot. Must be a heater core or something else?

Also, the previous owner must have had a short serp. belt installed that is not utilizing the idler pulley. As far a I can tell it is not making a difference.

Any thoughts?
Mike

SHOZ123 · 03-30-2008, 19:54

Heater core is probably plugged.

pittmike · 03-31-2008, 08:47

Thanks. I will give it a try in a couple of days. I am not sure if this reinforces your idea or not but this morning the hot air was a touch warmer while no where near hot.

SHOZ123 · 03-31-2008, 12:49

If you don't have the heater core bypass installed then the rear head may be over heating.

**360ci** · 04-04-2008, 20:21

There are kits that you can get for a few bucks that allows you to back flush the heater core with a standard garden hose - most work great :)