Heater problems
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Joined: May 2015
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Heater problems
98 F150 4.2
I've noticed the heater doesn't get "hot" just warm. Concerned for when weather gets cold.
I have changed the thermostat and coolant sensors. I've also flushed the heater core and it seems to be fine.
I have also noticed 2 things:
1. The temperature guage doesn't seem to get very high. In all fairness, I've not had the vehicle that long and this is my first Ford so I'm not certain how high it is supposed to get.
2. The radiator fan engages even at a cold startup. Is that normal on Fords?
I'm wondering if I should be looking at a new clutch for the fan?
I've noticed the heater doesn't get "hot" just warm. Concerned for when weather gets cold.
I have changed the thermostat and coolant sensors. I've also flushed the heater core and it seems to be fine.
I have also noticed 2 things:
1. The temperature guage doesn't seem to get very high. In all fairness, I've not had the vehicle that long and this is my first Ford so I'm not certain how high it is supposed to get.
2. The radiator fan engages even at a cold startup. Is that normal on Fords?
I'm wondering if I should be looking at a new clutch for the fan?
Senior Member
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 43,542
Likes: 819
From: Joplin MO
The temperature gauge should run right around mid-scale. If it isn't, I'd bet your new thermostat is defective or wrong temperature - you sure you didn't install it upside down? The fan will engage on a cold start, then gradually disengage. Yes, it roars for a minute or so.
Member
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 44
Likes: 3
From: New Joisey
My 2 cents.
Like mentioned the temp should be in the middle of the gauge. I have a 99 4.2.
Does the fan clutch ever turn off?
If it runs all the time that is not right. I think there may also be a temp sensor that tells the fan when to turn on and off? I never had any problems with mine.
On my big truck (18 wheeler) it has multiple sensors that could be the culprit.
I am going through that problem right now with it.
And I am told by the mechanic there might not be a fault code from the computer telling you which one is bad. He would have to test them individually one at a time. Soon I have off 2 weeks so he will fool with it then.
They replaced the fan clutch and it improved a little. Sometimes it works right and other times it runs too much. Chews up fuel and runs cooler. No good for the belt either with all the extra strain on it. A lot of noise too!
I will have to look now myself for my pickup, it must have some kind of control sensor?
You might need one instead of a fan clutch?
Like mentioned the temp should be in the middle of the gauge. I have a 99 4.2.
Does the fan clutch ever turn off?
If it runs all the time that is not right. I think there may also be a temp sensor that tells the fan when to turn on and off? I never had any problems with mine.
On my big truck (18 wheeler) it has multiple sensors that could be the culprit.
I am going through that problem right now with it.
And I am told by the mechanic there might not be a fault code from the computer telling you which one is bad. He would have to test them individually one at a time. Soon I have off 2 weeks so he will fool with it then.
They replaced the fan clutch and it improved a little. Sometimes it works right and other times it runs too much. Chews up fuel and runs cooler. No good for the belt either with all the extra strain on it. A lot of noise too!
I will have to look now myself for my pickup, it must have some kind of control sensor?
You might need one instead of a fan clutch?
Technical Article Contributor
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 10,636
Likes: 264
From: Vernon, NY
The correct temperature stock should be 184-190F after the thermostat opens. I know on my truck, it will get to 200F, then will open and stay at a steady 186F. I have the 4.2l too.
The temperature gauge is a 1/2 lie-o-meter. It is not like on some vehicles that it depicts it in degrees F. It just goes from cold to "warmed up", which is in the center of the gauge. If it over heats, it doesn't just go 3/4 of the way, it goes all the way to the right. By then you know something is already wrong.
The temperature gauge is a 1/2 lie-o-meter. It is not like on some vehicles that it depicts it in degrees F. It just goes from cold to "warmed up", which is in the center of the gauge. If it over heats, it doesn't just go 3/4 of the way, it goes all the way to the right. By then you know something is already wrong.