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Discussion Starter · #1 ·
I can drive at 60 for about 15 min, after a 20 min warm up and my temp. guage won't even move. the truck is an 82 3/4 ton and the outside temperature is probably about 35. Is my guage not working or do these engines just run cold? thanks
 

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Not really. Mine averages at ~180. I'm just ballparking what the number would be since its the first line of two between 100 and 240. I would say check the guage by removing it and checking for voltage, then check the sender. Probably somebody that knows a lot more about this will come along.
But no, these engines do not run cold. They might take a while to warm up, but if the upper radiator hose is burning hot, it is warm.
 

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My 84 truck takes forever to warm up. It probably takes about 10 minutes of driving before the needle moves up from 100*. Also, if idling the temp will actually go down to about 130*-150* depending on how long I sit. It won't warm up if I leave it sitting in the driveway. The temp however never gets past 200*-220* and I get plenty of heat as soon as the temp gauge goes above 150*.
 

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Correct - a Diesel generates BTU when under load, not much when unloaded.

If your cooling system is clean and functional and has a 195deg t-stat -which is good for fuel mileage - summertime, ac burning, you can watch the gage slowly creep up to 200deg, then plummet back to 180, as if you switched off the IGN, then slowly creep up to 200, then drop, etc.

This is normal for the 6.2 with a functional cooling system, as are your current symptoms, but check your t-stat - may be stuck open, or PO may have removed it.

You might put a piece of cardboard in front the radiator in winter ambients, keep an eye on the gage to see if you'll need to remove it before your destination - 200deg ECT is not a bad thing, in winter.
 

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If you have access to a infared thermometer you can check the actual engine temps. I am guessing stuck open thermostat. Also, you can use the feel the engine method or heater output method.
 

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Yep, it's either the thermostat is stuck open or the temp gauge isn't working... I'm guessing it's a combination of both.

On the topic of theremostats and warmup times, I've noticed that with a fresh thermostat my truck will warm right up just idleing. If the thermostat isn't brand new it won't do that, though... Don't know why... :confused:
 

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Im havin the same issue..... never got it figured out. new t-stat, heater core, radiator is completly blocked off, and a new blower motor. but then again i wish for 35 degrees. P.M. me if you figure anything out.
 

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Go with a 195 degree thermostat for best heater operation it makes a big difference.;)
 

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Discussion Starter · #10 ·
thanks for the replies! my heater works GREAT and I get heat fast. I will do some checks tonight, I'm going for a 20 mile drive later and I'll watch it
 
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