Hey everyone,

Looking for a little help. My engine seems to be running a little cool - about 185 - instead of it's normal 198 or so. Mileage has been lower than normal which makes sense if the PCM thinks the engine isn't up to full temp and is running rich. I assumed the thermostat was opening too early or was stuck open. I pulled it this morning, tested it on the stove, and it seemed to start opening somewhere between 190 - 195; fully open around 198. That seems normal to me. Is it?

The radiator / thermostat / coolant were all replaced in Feb 11.

So if the thermostat isn't the problem, what else would cause the engine to run cool?

In case this is all related... My 'Low Coolant Level' idiot light started coming on a few weeks ago. I replaced the coolant level sensor about a week ago. No change - idiot light still comes on. Coolant level has been and remains fine.

Any ideas are appreciated. Thanks.

 

One more thing... It looks like my intake manifold is leaking. I can see a coolant leak there. Not like it's gushing or anything; but definitely some fluid coming out. Could that cause a cooler running engine?

 

And yet another thing... After getting everything reassembled and starting the engine a few minutes ago, I noticed smoke from lower right side (driver side) of the engine. Appears to be coming from the exhaust manifold flange. Crap... Once the engine cools I'll restart and see if I can confirm an exhaust leak.

 

check for air in the system, check your radiator cap pressurizing the system and check the operation of the cooling fans.

 

Will do. Thanks, Oddball.