2002 explorer 4.0...i can start at cold start in morning and by the time i get as far as not even a mile the temp gauge goes up to max and check gauge light comes on. think its the switch on top of the thermostic housing?
3 Answers
If the 2002 4.0 engine is the same as the 2003 the thermostat housing is made of plastic. The sensor on top goes in and comes out in a particular fashion, I believe there is a metal spring clip which has to be removed and a rubber seal on the bottom prevents it from leaking. The housing is about 100 bucks, and after 14 years of sitting there probably very brittle. Break it or crack it and you'll be spending more cash. Work under the assumption the engine is overheating and go from there. Have you changed the fluid in 12 years? Is the recovery tank low or empty?
What significance does a cold start in the morning have? Will it not start when it's hot? Does it begin running bad after a mile when the needle pings to the right?
