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bri55
New User
Nov 17, 2007, 7:35 PM
Post #1 of 2
(2121 views)
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Buick 3.8 low heat
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1993 Buick Regal, 3.8 engine. Problem: Engine runs cold according to gage, 50' Celsius and only lukewarm heat inside car. Actions: Rad/heater core has been flushed, thermostat replaced as was coolant. Former owner reports same problem after waterpump was replaced. They attempted the same solutions as i have done to no avail. Observations: No leaks, no air locks but radiator flow seems stalled. There should be a river flowing, it's more of a trickle if that. Otherwise the engine runs perfect My Theory: The low engine temps combined with low heater output, I would conclude the waterpump is defective. By that i mean the impeller must be spinning backwards. One would think if that if so, that the engine would overheat, but not so. Extensive Goggle searches revealed little but i did visit a wrench head site where one member experienced (five) 5 re-built waterpumps with the reversed impellers. The difference was he was experiencing overheating. Im confused at this point. Yes i could replace the waterpump but im worried this is not the solution, doesn't make sense running cold. A reversed pump impeller would cause block temps to sore high.. right? Why then cold? Am im missing something like a heater control valve ? If so then why is the engine running cold? It's getting into winter and i need heat fast, Anyone have any ideas?
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Tom Greenleaf
Ultimate Carjunky
/ Moderator
Nov 18, 2007, 2:02 AM
Post #2 of 2
(2119 views)
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Re: Buick 3.8 low heat
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I doubt this is the water pump. Even if it had a reversed/broken or inoperative impeller it would overheat. The thermostat is supposed to stay shut and not even a noticable trickle thru radiator till engine is up to temp. The hose from thermostat to radiator should feel COLD. If not the thermostat is either installed improperly, defective, or somehow getting a source of heat to open it.
Ex: If you just took the belt off the thing it would not get heated coolant to the heater core but would overheat. Check a thermostat in a pan of water with an automotive thermometer and watch it open at the set temp to fully open just past that.
Warning! Use of household appliances to service automotive parts can lead to domestic disputes! 
T
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