T. Nelson wrote:
>>
>> I agree with both of the intelligent posters--it could be a defective
>> thermostat or not enough water in the radiator. Many people that
>> work on radiators fail to follow the proper steps in refilling the
>> radiator and cooling system. They just fill up the radiator and put
>> on the cap. After you drive such a vehicle--you will have all sorts
>> of problems since there is not enough water in the system.
>> The best thing to do is wait until the engine has cooled down for
>> several hours or more--such as early in the morning before you drive
>> it. Open the radiator cap and check it. If there is no water in the
>> system, fill it up. Leave the cap off of it and start the car. Have
>> a container in your hand that contains at least a gallon of water.
>> Watch the water level in the radiator--if it goes down--add more
>> water. Continue watching the water level and refilling as needed for
>> about 20 minutes. Once you are sure that the water level remains
>> constant for at least 10 or more minutes--place the cap back on it
>> and make sure it is tight. Also, fill the overflow container about
>> half way. Drive the vehicle as needed for the rest of the day and
>> night. Just to be on the safe side, check the water level of the
>> radiator the following morning. This should solve your problem--at
>> least I hope so.

You are a genius. It seems that, according to my dad, the guy who put in the
new radiayor didn't put in enough coolant and didn't run the radiator for
about 10 minutes to "condition" it and get it all filled up. In the last two
months, since i got the new radiator, i had hardly used the car for the
first month and half; have been using it more for the last 3 weeks. i guess
this is why the problem showed up. anyways, have put in enough water, will
see for next few days. then will drain the radiator and put in a 50/50
mixture.

i feel stupid as was checking out the cooling fans, thermostat, what nots,
when all it was a case of an incompletely-filled radiator.