Engine Temperature

[Blue00GT]

Hey all,
I performed a forum search didn't find quite what I was looking for, so hoping to get some feedback.

I'm having a problem with the enigine coolant guage that just recently started acting up - It won't come up off of cold side by more than three ticks, everything else seems to be working OK including the heater, but I'm worried the car is running in the cold start mode the entire time.

It also does't seemed to have tripped an codes that I can tell.

I'm betting it's my thermostat but I'm looking for other possibilities or confirmation. -Thanks All

 

[DBMSTNG]

maybe your thermostat is stuck open?

 

[stangGT97]

maybe your thermostat is stuck open?

thats what i would guess too

 

[RandyStinchcomb]

well if your getting heat, sounds like the thermostat is working and if its the factory Ford one, we have had very little problems out of them. if thats the case then I'd be looking at a bad temp sender. what year is the car?

 

[Blue00GT]

It is a 2000 GT. - Wouldn't the temp sender through a fault code?

 

[RandyStinchcomb]

It is a 2000 GT. - Wouldn't the temp sender through a fault code?

no, not all the time. now on 1999 up the ECT sensor is used for the EEC and the gauge in the dash which also could be bad. best thing to-do is get yourself a good quality aftermarket gauge(s) (ie: Autometer), as the factory stuff is just glorified idiots lights

 

[Blue00GT]

Thanks for all the input...I'm trying to keep it running until April 06 - I've got a new one coming. I checked prices on the senders and thermostat, together they might $40.00, Maybe just pick both up and see if that solves it.

 

[RandyStinchcomb]

ok, sounds good but as I always preach "stay away from aftermarket sensors" they are no where near as good as the OEM stuff

 

[jstreet0204]

There are a few things you can check first. Get the car up to temp, or as warm as it will go. Shut the car off, and CAREFULLY remove the coolant cap. Use a towel over it, and slowly open it so it relieves any pressure. then check the temp with a kitchen thermometer. If it actually is up over 180 degrees then you know it is the sensor. If it isn't then it is most likely the thermostat.