overheating s-10 blazer?

[DJFuji]

ok so maybe a tech forum isnt the best place to ask for automotive advice, but i know there are some guys out there that really know their stuff. Anyway, i have a 1991 chevy blazer S-10 and was wondering if anyone knew the avg temp it's supposed to run at. I just got my front and rear brakes done and as i was driving home, i noticed that on city streets it was running at around 215-220, which seemed kind of hot to me. If i remember correctly, it usually runs below 210 on city streets and just above on the freeway. Coolant level was ok. Any ideas?

 

[Demon-Xanth]

What engine? And did the temperature of the weather go up? (I know it did in my area)

 

[feralkid]

Possibly stuck thermostat. That's just the first, simple cause that comes to mind. Many things can cause a rise in engine temp. good luck.

 

[Vette73]

Originally posted by: DJ Fuji
ok so maybe a tech forum isnt the best place to ask for automotive advice, but i know there are some guys out there that really know their stuff. Anyway, i have a 1991 chevy blazer S-10 and was wondering if anyone knew the avg temp it's supposed to run at. I just got my front and rear brakes done and as i was driving home, i noticed that on city streets it was running at around 215-220, which seemed kind of hot to me. If i remember correctly, it usually runs below 210 on city streets and just above on the freeway. Coolant level was ok. Any ideas?

Before you buy any parts make sure there is nothing in front of the radiator. Like a trash bag, or any other trash off the street.
Next make sure your belt/s are there and working find, no slipping etc...
Next is the Rad. fan working?
Any coolant/water in teh Rad. and overflow tank? What does it look like.
If all the things listed are good and working then get a 180 thermostat, or 195 if you live in a cold place.


Those things I listed fix about 90% of the heating problems I have seen.

 

[DJFuji]

Doesnt stuck thermostat usually make an engine temp rise into the red, not just slightly above average temps?

it's a 4.3L V6, Auto, btw.

 

[grillmasterP]

Possibilities:

Thermostat (you can bypass/remove the thermostat to verify)
Hoses - make sure the hoses coming to & from the radiator are not cracked
radiator- any cracks or leaks?
coolant level -
do you have a boil-over reservoir- in some vehicles the coolant level must also be maintained or check for cracks in the reservoir.