Kevin,
You dont mention a few details that might be helpful such as the condition of
the coolant or if the system has been flushed recently so I will reply with the
assumption that there are no problems in these areas.
In addition to the suggestions that Irv made I will add a few. The first step
I would take is to go to Wal-Mart or similar and buy one of the probe oven
thermomometers(about $5) and place it in the top of the radiator and observe
the heating and cooling cycle of the engine. This will verify that you
actually have a problem. I found that my gauge was reading too high due to the
voltage regulator being bad. If the gas gauge is also reading high then the
voltage regulator is likely bad. When I placed the thermomometer in the
radiator and ran the car I found that the thermostat was working perfectly,
opening and closing at the right temps. In fact, I had changed my thermostat
to the 165 degree one and then had to return to the 180 degree thermostat once
I replaced the voltage regulator and found the engine running a little cool.
Additionally, check the various hoses carefully to make sure none of them are
kinked. The PO of mine had installed a straight hose where a pre-bent one
should have been used. The result was a severe restriction in flow where the
hose folded around a tight curve. I also found quite a bit of crud in the
metal pipe that runs through the exhaust intake. I had to reem the pipe out
with a long shank drill bit to clean the rust and dirt out. A new radiator cap
is cheap if yours is looking worn. Your current cap may or may not be working
properly. As Irv suggested a cheap start is to replace the thermostat. A new
one should be available at most local parts stores. I bought mine at NAPA and
they had one in stock. If everything else checks out you can always install a
thermostat with a lower opening temp.
And finally, while these cars sometimes have a reputation for overheating
unless in extreme heat situations the car should be able to work effectively
with the stock set-up. You might want to check the archives for information
since this topic has been covered before. Given a very limited budget most of
the suggestions that have been given shouldnt run you too much money. I would
try a few of the suggestions you have been given before heading towards the
electric fan since the electric fan will run you a little bit of money. And
chances are your problem will still be around even with an electric fan. The
electric fan will just run more often to counter the problem.
Hope this helps and please share what you find.
Cheers,
Aaron
Topsham, Maine
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