Jeremy

I have a 1983, with a new waterpump as of 5 months ago. The car really hadn't passed the middle notch on the water temp gauge until about a week ago. It has been over 90 the last week and this morning (for the second time) my gauge started moving past the 3/4 mark towards the beginning of the far right solid yellow mark (around 105 degrees according to F.R. Wilk's website) before I arrived at work. I checked my coolant level and though some could be added it is still well between the mid and max on the resevoir when the car is warm.

Maybe I am over reacting and its just because of the weather, but should my gauge be getting this high?

When should I be concerned about overheating?

How many fans should be running when the air conditioning is not on? When I have shut the car off?

I have thought about using water wetter but I have heard mixed opinions, and it usually isn't this hot, also I am concerned about the implications in a New York blizzard this winter. Thoughts?

Thanks -

Jeremy
1983 Guards Red

Dano_944

Jeremy: If you just replaced your water pump, there is a very slight chance that:
1. The old thermostat was installed (not likely), and is beginning to stick.
2. The new thermostat is higher in temp setting than the old one (mine is ) and your running a tad hotter (somewhat likely).
3. You may have a tiny bit of air in the system, and may need to check and bleed the air out (top bolt on the pump hose housing) - easiest to check.
4. Unrelated to the water system, the fan temp sensor/actuator switch on one, or both of your fans is going out, or is out. The fans may only be running in 'slow' mode. Ironically, these electric switches fail when the ambient air get hot (90 degrees +).

If the pump was replaced by anyone but a GOOD Porsche qualified mechanic, I'd opt for answer 3. So, check for air in the system.

Good luck!

CJFusco

My temp gauge has always been in the middle, except the past couple days (95+ degrees), where it has been betweem 1/2 and 3/4. At night when it is cooler, it goes back down to 1/2

dan b

If it realy bugs you then you can also get a aftermarket fan switch tha turns you fans on sooner. they are around $20 and most of the aftermarket suppliers(europrducts,performance poducts,tweeks,ect....) carry then.

Paul C 944

My 86 runs at 1/2 to 3/4 on these hot days with the air on.Seems normal ,cause the next morn it runs cooler. As always keep an eye on the temp!

Alvin

Hey I just went through this myself. I replaced the water pump on my early 85 then about 6 months later it happened again--especially in traffic. well to make a long story short it turned out to be a relay. check those out first, only a couple of bucks and could save you big $$$$.

Alvin