Re: [DML] how hot is too hot?

["Walter" <Whalt@xxxx>]

I think your hot running problem may be from the otterstat. My original one
didn't turn the fans on until the temp gauge was around 220 +/- a needle
width. The next time your car starts getting hot, see if the fans don't
come on until around the 220 mark. If so, then replace the otterstat with a
cooler one. Another symptom that makes me suspect your otterstat bad is the
fact that you are running without a/c. When the a/c compressor is running,
then so do the radiator fans regardless of what the otterstat thinks. Even
with my otterstat disconnected, the a/c runs the radiator fans enough to
keep the engine cooler than relying on the otterstat alone. For a more
precise way to check your otterstat, put it in a pot of water on the stove
and hold it with the alligator clips from a continuity meter. Then see what
temperature it switches at.

When buying a new otterstat, be sure that you get the right one. There are
several versions of the otterstat that will fit, but each switches at a
different temperature. If you replace it with another one that is also for
too high a temperature, then you won't get an improvement. Just be careful
who you buy the new one from.

The next part I would suspect is the thermostat. You can take it out, drop
it in a pot of water and heat it up to see at what temperature it opens. It
may not be opening completely or not soon enough.

A less likely cause could be a loose fan belt, but you would probably hear
that squeaking if it were.

Walt Tampa, FL