rgr4475

98 xj 4.0

I know the gauges aren't 100% accurate but normal operating temp for this Jeep has been just under the 210 mark. City/Stop & Go traffic it would reach just over the 210 mark.

I included a picture to show where the temp is now. Is this just a thermostat issue at this point? Is it something I need to worry about? I turned the heat on and it seemed to blow hot like normal.

Thermostat and all hoses were replaced about 3 years or about 20,000 miles ago. I got the thermostat at Advance Auto before reading that the factory thermostat was recommended. Radiator was replaced 2 years ago this winter.

toasterknight

The thermostat could have failed open or the temp sensor could be going out.

rgr4475

Temp sensor as in what sends the info to the gauge? If the go bad is it common for the temp readings to be off slightly or would it fail completely showing no temp etc? How do you test this sensor and where is it located? Thanks!

rgr4475

Can anyone help out on how to test this before i go and throw a thermostat on there? Thanks!

toasterknight

Thermostats are cheap I would just replace it and see if that changes things.

Fred/N0AZZ

Use an IR temp gauge to check what the heat really is in the engine and go from there. I may be old fashioned but I change thermostats at least every two years when I flush and replace new anti-freeze in all my stuff (8 vehicles in all) both are cheap compared to what all they protect.


Well I take that back the diesel trucks most of all the motor home requires a LOT of antifreeze lol.

rgr4475

Thank you gentlemen.

sycoglitch

^^^^^^^^^This from start to finish ^^^^^^^^^

rgr4475

And Fred, do you use RTV or not? I will be going with a mopar thermostat and gasket.

Jimbo Slice

I usually apply a little, if for nothing more than to hold the gasket in place when installing.

Just be mindful not to obstruct any of the passages.