I have a 1984 F150, straight 6, carb, 2wd.

My engine temp gauge is showing it is running just above the C when at operating temp. Obviously this could be two things: electrical issue with the sending unit to the gauge or thermostat.

The other issue is the oil has some milky white goo. Yes the first reaction is head gasket but coolant levels are stable and no smoke. Oil cap is also "leaking" and soon to be replaced and PCV valve probably needs replacing too.

So, I'm thinking thermostat shot and moisture getting into oil?

And to make things a little weirder; noticed this morning that the oil pressure was up (was just above freezing overnight) and when the oil pressure was up, the engine temp gauge read right in middle of the gauge. After the truck warmed up and the oil gauge when back to the middle, the engine temp gauge went back down towards "C".

Ideas?

 

After enough running to get the truck up to temp, is the upper radiator hose hot or cool?

How many miles a week does this truck see?

Adrianspeeder

 

Hose is definitely hot. It's probably gets about 250 miles a week tops, unless I go to the junkyard a lot lol.

I don't like to just replace parts for the heck of it but I don't know the service history on this thing, except the carb is fairly new.

For $16 for the thermostat/gasket it's a good start and probably needed changed anyway, it's definitely been in the awhile, PB Blaster here I come!