96 Ranger running too cold

[killj0y]

Ok so I've just been concerned lately because my 2.3 96 ranger doesn't ever seem to get to regular operating temp. I've driven it 300 miles in 100 degree weather and I've nevr seen it rise aboce a centimer past C. Its never hit halfway or even come close, I just want some advice on wether this is normal or not. Aside from maybe using too much gas it seems to run perfect. Any ideas where to start diagnosing? I would rather get the stock gauge working vs buying an aftermarket gauge if possible. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[TimR]

use an infrared temperature gun, and check the rad temp. If it really jibes with the gauge, replace the thermostat, it's stuck open!

 

[killj0y]

hmm you think so? It looked good when i worked on it last. But then again changing it is a simple affair I'm sure. What temp thermostat is recommended? Any other reasons you can think of that might be causing this?

 

[--weezl--]

t-stat, just replace it, imo, it's a tuneup part... they are cheap and easy to install... much simplier and cheaper than even changing spark plugs... just don't put it in backwards

 

[Bryan22]

the t-stat is kind of a PITA with the stock fan and shroud in the way. I've replaced 3 of them and still running too cold. and I live in the desert. Replace that one once with a factory one, if it doesn't help don't keep trying.

I was reading somewhere that the housings get rotten and start bypassing fluid after a while, I think that's my problem. Maybe not yours, just throwing it out there. Also I've heard people saying the aftermarket ones never seal. Might try a motocraft one before i replace the housing. good luck.

 

[--weezl--]

i've used aftermarket ones in the mustang, never an issue, though i think they are $15 at ford...

 

[modelageek]

I would just replace the tstat with a MOTOCRAFT. the reason I say MOTORCRAFT is because I know they work, seal and have the bleeder hole. I do not know about the other tstats. some would work and some might not work. the temp is about 190/192.

you also can pull the upper rad hose off the rad when the truck is cold, if coolant comes out the tstat is stuck open

 

[--weezl--]

I would just replace the tstat with a MOTOCRAFT. the reason I say MOTORCRAFT is because I know they work, seal and have the bleeder hole. I do not know about the other tstats. some would work and some might not work. the temp is about 190/192.

you also can pull the upper rad hose off the rad when the truck is cold, if coolant comes out the tstat is stuck open

if coolant flows out of the block (more that a few drops) you mean...

there will always be coolant spilling out if you pull a rad hose...

 

[modelageek]

if coolant flows out of the block (more that a few drops) you mean...

there will always be coolant spilling out if you pull a rad hose...

Yes there will always be some. Coolant in the hose because the t-stat should have a bleeder, however if the t-stat is stuck open a lot of coolant will come out.

 

[--weezl--]

yes, i'm just clarifying for people who haven't done it before... the biggest thing is if it FLOWS out, a trickle is most likely the bleeder

but alternately (and much less likely) it could be opening at say... 120* instead of 190... which is why i say just replace the damn thing, for $20 parts, including the gasket...

 

[modelageek]

I agree change the tstat

 

[dorman68]

Ok so I've just been concerned lately because my 2.3 96 ranger doesn't ever seem to get to regular operating temp. I've driven it 300 miles in 100 degree weather and I've nevr seen it rise aboce a centimer past C. Its never hit halfway or even come close, I just want some advice on wether this is normal or not. Aside from maybe using too much gas it seems to run perfect. Any ideas where to start diagnosing? I would rather get the stock gauge working vs buying an aftermarket gauge if possible. Any help would be appreciated.

I have had 3 Rangers in the past 7 years. They all did the same thing as yours. I can drive for 3 hours straight on the highway or in town on a 97 degree hot summer day and my gauge will barely pass the "C". I have replaced the thermostat and fan clutch in both and still have the same results. I gave up and just let it be.

 

[modelageek]

I have had 3 Rangers in the past 7 years. They all did the same thing as yours. I can drive for 3 hours straight on the highway or in town on a 97 degree hot summer day and my gauge will barely pass the "C". I have replaced the thermostat and fan clutch in both and still have the same results. I gave up and just let it be.

these 2.3/2.5 limas do run cool. my temp stays about the C mark but in the winter it will stay at the c or below at idle...........I think some people make the mistake of putting a 180 degree temp in thinking that will help them out... it actuality it will only make it worse get the highest temp stat you can find.......in the winter cover the rad with cardboard that helps a little.

 

[pbilt]

i have a 85 2.3 and a mechanical gauge and it never goes above 185 and i have a 195 tstat in it dont know if that helps but mine runs cold to

 

[modelageek]

i have a 85 2.3 and a mechanical gauge and it never goes above 185 and i have a 195 tstat in it dont know if that helps but mine runs cold to

When did you change the tstat last. Did you use a motorcraft? I am not familiar with the 85's but on my truck some tstats don't sit properly and coolant passes thru. If you don't have a MC I would order a MC tstat from Rockauto and swap it out