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2000 3.5 Intrigue running cool/poor heat


goreo
01-07-2009, 07:47 AM
Hi,
New to the board here.My son's 2000 Intrigue has a issue with running cool,and poor heat when driving.If stopped the temp warms toward 1/2 on temp gauge,and the heat is ok,but once in motion it drops again below 1/4 on gauge.It is cold in Michigan, about 10-20 degree's lately. Coolant checks fine.The car has about 170k miles and is running fine otherwise.I suspect the thermostat/housing needs replacing. Any input would be great.

Airjer_
01-07-2009, 09:44 AM
Sounds like a t-stat to me!

LittleHoov
01-07-2009, 10:49 AM
Agreed, we've seen temps like that here in Missouri, and although mine does warm up slower since replacing my thermostat (I did modify mine slightly) it will reach full operating temperature even when its in single digits.

I dont want to confuse you, I replaced my thermostat a few months ago because I was running hot when temps were below freezing, a common issue on certain Intrigues.


But I would say replace the t-stat, its not terribly difficult, in my experience it was just messy, but I couldnt get the radiator drain loose...so yeah:headshake


As a temporary, band aid kind of thing you could try blocking of the front of the radiator with a piece of cardboard, etc.

dtownfb
01-07-2009, 11:28 AM
Littlehoov gave me the confidence to replace the thermostat myself. although I was able to get my radiator drain plug open. No tools necessary, just lift as you turn the drain cock.

I replaced mine because the engine was running cool like yours. I also have a 2000 Intrigue with over 170k miles.

goreo
01-07-2009, 08:33 PM
Thanks for the assist with cure for the Intrigue cool running.The new Napa theromstat and housing did the trick,nice it was easy to get to also.

harmankardon35
01-09-2009, 03:42 PM
remember to purge the air from the cooling system!

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