[1fast5.0]

I need some input on correcting a "major" overheating problem on my 95 GT. The problem began after I installed new racing heads. She runs fine at around 190F at normal driving speeds, which is just fine of course... but when I hammer it and hold her to over 100 mph for a short burst, she pegs out the heat gauge ( exceeds 250F ). It's not a slow temp climb either... it jumps from normal operating temp to "super hot" immediately. When I turn off the engine and allow it to cool back down to normal, it will behave until I hammer it once again... then the heat gauge pegs out once again. Here is a list of the fixes I have tried to correct the problem... none have worked.

1. I've had the radiator pressure tested and it's fine... no leaks.
2. The hoses are good ... no collapse, no leaks.
3. replaced the thermostat with a new 180F.
4. relaced the radiator cap.
5. replaced the water pump with a brand new one.
6. reinstalled the stock pully's.
7. flushed the cooling system, added proper water/antifreeze mix.
8. installed new fan motor ... working fine. fan and shroud are fine.

There are only two things left that could be creating the problem that I am aware of...

1. the stock radiator is crap and can't handle the additional horse power ( heat ).
2. possible head gasket leak, causing exaust gases to permeate the cooling system( this seems unlikely because I was very careful in doing the racing heads install )
I will check the plugs for any greenish discoloration just to be sure though.

Please give me your opinions and suggestions because I'm about ready to trash the car and buy a 99 GT if I can't correct it.

Anyone interested in a "HOT" 95 SN?

[Mack Daddy]

Im leaning towards the radiator not being able to cool the coolant down quick enough before it is transfered back into the block ....i say 3 core radiator time.

[bard]

I would try a better radiator too.

[1fast5.0]

Thanks guy's .... I think it's the radiator also. I'll buy one today if I can find one locally and let ya know how it works out ... just in case someone else is having the same problem.

p.s. I came across this can of stuff at auto Zone last night that is supposed to drop the rad temp by 40 degrees. it's a little pricey @ $25.00 though. Has anyone tried it?

[Maximumrisk]

i HAD THE SAME PROBLEM AFTER INSTALLING NEW HEADS, CAM INTAKE, ECT, ECT...
IN MY CASE i NEEDED TO TUNE THE COMPUTER (CHIP). THE GUY THAT PROGRAMMED THE CHIP INSTALLED A 180º THERMOSTAT & TOLD THE COMPUTER TO START THE FAN AT A COOLER TEMP., 180º TO BE EXACT. BUT EVERY CASE IS DIFFERENT, JUST LETTING U KNOW. HOPE THIS HELPS

[youlluzracing]

when you installed the head gaskets did you put the cooling holes in the head gaskets in the back of the motor? I didnt and i had major cooling issues. dave

[GTRaptor]

How much compression and timing are you running?

[1fast5.0]

Thanks for your input Max. I have a "mail order" chip installed. I'm removing it today after work... I don't trust it.

luvracing, ya know I "think" I put the heads in the right way ... hmmm. You just gave me something else to worry about! No, just kidding ... I'm sure I put 'em in the right way...I think. Thanks.

Raptor, I will remove the chip and re-check the timing. I know it's advanced right now. That off the shelf chip might be screwing my car up. Will also do a compression check and get back to you.

DRIVE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT!

A new radiator did the trick. I ended up buying another stock 1 row ( against my better judgement ) 'cause I got a good deal on it locally from a "friend of a freind"... but plan on going to the FLUIDYNE 3 row this summer. I mean, I don't have a bottomless bank account! ..but wish I did. She's cruising in the 185 - 190 temp range now with a 210 spike when I put the whip to her. The temp immediately drops to 190 when I back off the throttle.
I guess the old, original radiator was getting clogged ateries or something.

[Maximumrisk]

What Part Of The Country R U Living In? How Is The Temp Outside?

[1fast5.0]

South Florida Max. I put the u/d pully's back on and removed the hyperchip... my cruising temp jumped from 190 up to 208. My new immediate temporary plan of action is to re-install the hyperchip ( so the fan will kick on at the lower temp ) and get a shorter serpentine belt. This way I can use the stock waterpump and alternator pully's but keep using the smaller crank pully. Maybe bypass the smog pump also. Will probably install a manual fan switch too. Man, the crap we go through for a few exta horses! BUT IT'S WORTH IT!


DRIVE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT!

[Mp3 pirate]

Sounds like you got the Head Gasket Backwards or the wrong one. Heats up too fast!!!!!!! Yank off the heads and check it first. If you get the heads too hot they will warp!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I never use Permatex or anything on Head gaskets.......Dry is best...
Check the part number on the new heads from your receipt and the old ones if you still have them......

[94stangcrazy]

WHATEVER you do, don't use the "cooling" products they sell to chill your radiator. THEY SUCK and will CLOG your radiator.