Driving an 88 n/a

Just yesterday, my temp gauge climbed to a little above half (it normally sits between 1/4 and 1/3). Scared the hell outta me. I pulled over, let it settle down, and drove slowly home with the gauge sliding up and down, never over about half. I thought that the problem may have come from the new filter I just put on, but when I removed it and put the stock box back on, same thing happened. I've now changed my oil, topped off my coolant, and checked for any visible leaks. Nothing.

Here's what I've done recently (though I don't think anything should effect the temp): K&N Cone, ditched P/S and A/C, Plug wires, New oil, Flushed coolant, lubed 5&6 ports.

I'd really appreciate it if someone could shed a little light on this. What should my next step be in assessing the problem?

BTW, don't know if it matters, but I also have a slightly higher than normal idle right now (don't know why it climbed). It sits around 1500 RPM.

Thanks guys.

Tim

 

You may have a bubble in your system. Try to use the valve at the top of the hose to relieve it.

Are you headed over to Emerald Downs on Sunday for the WWSCC autocross? Close to home and if I remember right you were interested in learning more about it.

 

You remember correctly, I am interested. But I have to work Sunday and, with my car heating up like it is, I don't think I'd want to try it.

I'm going to try and bleed the cooling system tomorrow but I switched the coolant about a month ago and the problem just developed.

Although it could be a small leak somewhere in the system (ie loose hose). Is there somewhere that can test the pressure of the system for me?

 

Mine developed a bubble in it early this spring and I got a low coolant warning out of nowhere. Took care of it and haven't had a problem since. Any radiator shop should be able to pressure test it for you.

Even if you can't run, come over on Sunday. You can learn a lot about how things work by watching too. You can even do a work assignment if you want and learn that part of it in advance. I'm running in the morning group and will probably be involved in work assignments.

Good luck in beating the problem.