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coolant coming out of over fill tube


krl0606
05-18-2008, 09:32 PM
Got a problem here. 2000 malibu 3.1 liter 127000 miles
I'll give the symptoms:

1. Coolant comes out of the overflow tube when the water temp gets high (aprox. 200 degrees).
2. Radiator hoses are spongy at same temp as above
3. No hot air coming out of heater vents
4. I just replaced the intake gaskets 5000 miles ago and thermostat was done today (the thermostat is what I thought the problem was).

is this a faulty water pump??? If so, is there a way to diagnose this before I buy one?

Kirk

samturner
05-19-2008, 11:05 AM
On an older Chevy I found my problem was a plugged radiator. When the car gets hot unplug the fan so it don't come on and get you.

Place your hand on the radiator in several places if one area is not hot then there is no circulation n that area.

I had to replace my radiator.. However you could have a bad pump or a broken impeller on the water pump.

krl0606
05-19-2008, 06:58 PM
Sorry I just read my thread and I guess you all need more info.
2000 malibu 3.1 liter 127000 miles
I'll also check the radiator to see if if has any "cold spots".
Kirk

krl0606
05-20-2008, 07:48 PM
Couple more things to add:


I installed the new pump last night I let it sit and idle for about 30 minutes. It did not get hot at all. In fact, it never went above 195 degrees. So I am thinking I am good to go!

Wrong, on my way to work it overheated again.

One final piece of info; the radiator hose that goes from the thermostat to the radiator thumps when it gets above 200 degree. And there is no heat coming out of heater vents.

krl

WPG
05-21-2008, 11:42 AM
Try replacing the coolant cap on the overflow tank. The rubber gasket on the cap may be missing or ripped, allowing the coolant to flow out the tube. Because of this, the system can not hold pressure and air will get into the cooling system.

Once you replace the cap, bleed the cooling system. Most likely the tumping you are feeling is air in the cooling system.

brcidd
05-21-2008, 12:30 PM
Most likely the tumping you are feeling is air in the cooling system or exhaust fumes-- have you pressure tested cooling system-- how about putting a plastic bag over the neck where the cap goes- does it "pump up" and smell of exhaust???

krl0606
05-21-2008, 04:27 PM
Thanks for all the input, esp. WPG. My resovour cap did not have the o-ring gasket, it ripped last week and I did not think much of it. However, I bought a new one today and instantly the cooling system pressurized! It was a $10 cap but I imagine I could have gone to the hardware store got an 0-ring much cheaper.

thanks again,
Kirk

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