I just had my new radiator put in under the Ford upgrade program. The temp gauge still goes to midway and the heater works well but it doesn't burn my foot any more. I am in Oswego NY and it was 19 degrees last night. I am pleased. I'm glad I didn't take the $100, since I may use it for towing heavy Uhaul trailers when I go from job to job.

 

The gauge will read the same after the larger radiator. This is not an accurate gauge, it's electronically buffered (aka FAKE).

 

Which radiator did you end up with (1.42 or 2.2)?

Max and I both got the 2.2 -- only Max was bold enuff to ask for just the radiator -- then installed it himself. I, on the other hand, merely let the dealer scratch the heck out of things while installing it for me.

It appears that, for 2000 and on, the 1.42 is the biggie (dunno why the 2.2 still exists, but it does. Perhaps it's for the Lightning??).

 

Had mine changed a couple of weeks ago. Got the 1.42"
Dealer did a nice clean install. Have not noticed any drop on the temp gauge, and did not expect to. The thermostat regulates temperature, the bigger rad just adds cooling capacity.
Have heard differing stories as to if the temp gauge is real or not. I don't know.

 

Temp gauge is not real!! Have not recieved my new Rad. yet.

 

This in reference to the refund/repair issue Ford put-out a while back? Got my stuff in the mail, i took the money and ran! , sorry if i am little help.....haven't heard of anyone who went with the upgrade.

 

peties3- The temperature gauge is not accurate=old news.
Have you heard about the oil pressure gauge?

Y2K 7700 4x4, pgh_medic- Even funnier=I got the radiator, installed it myself, took the check, and cashed it.

 

UUHH DUH Yeah!

 

I don't believe that you would see a difference in the temp guage even if it was accurate. If you are running the same thermostat, then it should run at the same temp. I think the larger radiator will only come into play while towing or hauling in hot weather. Otherwise, a well maintained engine should not have an over heating problem.

 

Max: I was wondering whether I'd pass the honesty test with the check -- only I didn't get the chance to find out. I guess I'm happy with the radiator. Son-in-law bought a new trailer -- perhaps we can 'convoy' where I can put mine to the test.

 

My logic was this. A)They scammed me on the radiator. B)I had to install it myself to avoid the scratches. C)They were dumb enough to send me the check. It all equals out.

 

My 5.4 pulls my 2,200lb. car hauler with my '65 Cutlass convertable on in and doesn't even think of over-heating. I took the 'bill' and ran.

 

I fully understand.

They've made some really foolish moves in recent months -- and it's coming to bite them in market share. Things like wimpy-looking radiators, missing rear fender liners, front fender liners that don't fit, no splash/stone guards for the back-side of the front bumper (and wiring for useless fog lamps), noisy engine air intake (plastic manifold ??), missing cubbyhole at driver's knee, back seats that take up too much room when folded, 3-channel abs, dash gauges that aren't, head gaskets that leak, elimination of zerk fittings, plain steel spare wheels, totally-useless fog lamps, etc..

I'm glad there are 2.5 truck competitors -- perhaps by the time I'm ready for a new truck, Ford will have learned a valuable lesson and start building trucks like the nephew claims he does in his tv ads.

I would have quickly cashed the check with no sense of guilt.

 

Does the incorrect radiator issue exist in 2002 models?

Thanks!

MP

 

Well, it took just a little over a year from initial dealer contact - but the my new 2.02" radiator went in today -- along with a recalled wiper motor.

I just wanted what I paid for - and now I have it **(until another Ford short cut is discovered)**