Temp Gauge deadspot - How serious?

[Beardo]

I am about to buying a 1997 LC VX 1FZE, and have learned through research on this most excellent forum that the temp gauge has a deadspot that does not indicate you're overheating until it is just about too late.

I've also learned about many of the various mods that can be made to counteract or prevent this from being a problem.

My question is: Is this something that all owners should worry about, or only the people who push their cruisers to the limits?

I know the penalty for overheating is severe and costly, I am just wondering how urgently I need to get on this mod once I take delivery.

By the way, I live in Tanzania and parts for things like mods of this nature are somewhat less than readily available.

Thanks in advance for your advice.

 

[guzzla]

Hi mate,

When the cooling system is in perfect operation, it works exceptionally well. It even works reasonably well when its not. The problem is, unless you know for 100% the cooling system is in perfect working order (new thermostat, water pump, hoses and clean rad) they can create issues when you least expect it or want it to.

The problem with the factory temp gauge is the built in dead spot. It's original intention was to stop owners with no idea, thinking their car was overheating when it really wasn't. The problem is though, if the engine does overheat, by the time the gauge actually moves, or you see it move, it can be too late.

The best bet, other than overhauling the cooling system, is to fit a quality aftermarket temp gauge. There are some good ones on eBay like the TM2 Watchdog, that has temp alarms. Myself and others run these and have found them to be very accurate. Failing that, any aftermarket gauge is going to be of some help and warning when things get hotter than they should.

 

[kidglove13]

Can that 97 in your part of the world be fitted with a Scangauge?

It is exactly what you need, if not I would put an aftermarket temp gauge in.

I have a $20 manual temp gauge from the auto parts store in my truck

How accurate it is I have not tested it but anything is better than the factory garbage

 

[doc W]

Guzzla is right on with his observations - system works well when everything is functioning.

Fan clutches can also be an issue. Many threads on this. Make sure you have an OEM thermostat, rad cap, and that the radiator is not clogged and you should be OK.

I have had overheating probs, solved with new radiator. You will pop the radiator cap and loose your water in the worst case - even then you may not damage the engine if you shut off immediately.

Good luck and good travels.

 

[DSRTRDR]

X2 on an aftermarket temperature gauge - that's probably be easier to find where you are