Hey everyone, I've spent several hours scanning forums for info on engine temp fluctuations. I'm going to perform a coolant flush today, but would like some additional advice. Last week I drove 900 miles with my 84' FJ60. At one point of the trip, I had to drive up a very steep section of freeway (Northbound portion of the 101, just past San Louis Obispo for those of you who are familiar with California). By the time I "summited," the gauge indicator had almost reached red. This occurred at night (maybe 75F at the time). The rest of the trip was problem free, even in 100 degree temps. I've noticed that every time my LC has to take on hills, the gauge reading increases, although never as significant as the aforementioned fluctuation. One more thing that may be worth mentioning; I drove the LC for the first time in a month or so several weeks back. I turned on the AC, and after like 5 miles of driving in very hot conditions, the rig almost overheated. I've read that when cars sit unused, carbon build up can accumulate, temporarily rising temps until regular use burns off the build up. Don't know if this is pseudo science or not, or if this is an attributable cause to the sudden temp rise.
Just about everything is stock (original 2f and H42); has a carb fan, and the fan clutch looks to be in good shape.
Should I consider replacing the Tstat? The coolant reservoir has the shi**y yellow coolant, so ill be flushing and replacing with Toyota red. Lastly, when I flush, should I do the heater core too? Hoping that clearing out the coolant will alleviate. It's an interesting problem in that it only really occurs when going uphill, aside from running the AC the one time. The cruiser is a creampuff and really hasn't gotten much use, so I'm trying to change that, while being proactive about any red flags.
Thanks in advance Mudders!
Just about everything is stock (original 2f and H42); has a carb fan, and the fan clutch looks to be in good shape.
Should I consider replacing the Tstat? The coolant reservoir has the shi**y yellow coolant, so ill be flushing and replacing with Toyota red. Lastly, when I flush, should I do the heater core too? Hoping that clearing out the coolant will alleviate. It's an interesting problem in that it only really occurs when going uphill, aside from running the AC the one time. The cruiser is a creampuff and really hasn't gotten much use, so I'm trying to change that, while being proactive about any red flags.
Thanks in advance Mudders!
