Operating temp question
02-08-2013, 02:26 PM
#1
Operating temp question
Its a 98 5.4 4x4 and I was looking at my freeze frame data and it said my ect was 208 I thought that was a little high but does anypne kno the normal operating temp for these 5.4 s I also dont have heat if that helps
Thanks
Thanks
02-08-2013, 09:09 PM
#5
Ford Owner
I believe you are running a little high. Your thermostat is set at 190 degrees so your temp should stay somewhere around there. If you heat doesn't work, you are most likely have a clogged cooling system. Drain and flush and because it is cheap, change your thermostat. Also test your water pump. Pinch the upper radiator hose and listen to a swish when you release it to indicate your water pump is working like it should. If you have a lot of rust in your system, you may have disintegrated the water pump fins and you are not getting the circulation you need. The water pump is not expensive if you DIY.
In the old days, anti freeze lasted only a year and you had to change it every year. People would often fail to change it and cook their engine during the summer following two years of not changing their anti freeze. today, the anti freeze last a lot longer but you still have to change it or it will cause problems for you. Also belts and hoses would only last for a few years and you had to change them every three years or so of they would break and cook your engine. Today also they last much longer even as much as 12 years or longer.
I would not only flush the cooling system, change the water pump, thermostat, and add new anti freeze and you will be good for another 4 years with no problems and should not risk cooking your engine from overheating and a breakdown.
In the old days, anti freeze lasted only a year and you had to change it every year. People would often fail to change it and cook their engine during the summer following two years of not changing their anti freeze. today, the anti freeze last a lot longer but you still have to change it or it will cause problems for you. Also belts and hoses would only last for a few years and you had to change them every three years or so of they would break and cook your engine. Today also they last much longer even as much as 12 years or longer.
I would not only flush the cooling system, change the water pump, thermostat, and add new anti freeze and you will be good for another 4 years with no problems and should not risk cooking your engine from overheating and a breakdown.