1993 lexus es300 radiator / AC problems - can u help?

[darren]

so yea, i got a 1993 lexus es 300 158K miles
it runs very hot in general and overheats too easily (either by gunning it or even gunning it and then idling, it'll overheat itself)
the problem is compounded 10 times over when i use the air conditioning, at which point i think it leaks a ton of antifreeze and then i have to fill it.

ive actually taken to my very trustworthy mechanic; he looked at it and couldnt immediately determine what the problem was.

i thought i'd bring it to you guys.
do you think i should take it to the lexus dealer or what?

 

[Evadman]

Most likely: thermostat problem.

Could also be:

clogged lines.
clogged radiator AC condenser
internally clogged radiator
Bad or marginal waterpump
colapsed lower radiator hose
Bad thrmostatic control on the fan ( or bad clutch if mechanical. Not sure on the ES series )

There are literaly tons of things it could be

 

[darren]

thanks for the response evadman!

i'd like to learn bout car mechanics and repair - and my courseload is very light right now (2 classes only) so i have some time to read and what not. can you recommend books and articles that would help a novice like myself learn bout car mechanics?

darren

 

[Thegonagle]

I notice that it's 9 years old with 158,000 miles. I think it's probably time for a new radiator, and new hoses and thermostat while your at it. Radiators don't tend to last much past 8-12 years in my experience, depending on how often the coolant is changed, of course.

 

First things first ;
Pressure test the cooling system to find any leaks.

PM me and I will guide you through a quick diagnoses.