2002 Pontiac Grand Prix GT overheating!!

[OLDSCHOOL22]

Hi there, I read a problem that sounds similar to mine. It was the 2002 pontiac grand prix with the overheating block. My temperature gauge stays normal, the rad and overflow are at correct levels,but my block is overheating. I had a temp. gauge on my catalytic converter and apparently it is normal also. The suggestion was either a sticky thermostat or the splines in the water pump are corroded off. I know the block is overheating because there is a temp light located below the temp. gauge and it is coming on, and the car starts running rough which it is designed to do when the block overheats, shutting down cylinders so it does not damage anything. Any suggestions?

 

[skidoojames151]

i suggest posting in the correct section

 

[UR LOSN]

moved to correct section

 

[toolguy]

You need to stop this ASAP of else you can crack your heads...

First off, make sure your cooling fans are coming on. If not, that is the issue. One should come on when needed, if it is too cold outside, turn your AC on, both fans should spin at that point for the AC.

Also make sure your radiator is not clogged with debris. You can also check the radiator for cold spots using an infrared thermometer. Cold spots indicate clogs. Also check your upper and lower radiator hoses to make sure both are not collapsed.

Second, replace the thermostat. It is the cheaper of the two parts you listed and you probably need to do it anyway.

If you can do it yourself, the part is cheap, just make sure you bleed all the air out of the system or it will overheat again. There is a bleeder screw to open on the thermostat elbow you take off to replace it.

If that does not work, I would go after the water pump.

Some of these checks would be for if the temp gauge shows hot, you said yours stays normal, so I am thinking your head gasket as already gone. Check your oil for coolant in it and if found, the head gasket is the issue.