88 S4...Rad fans do not come on

engine eventually overheats even when I force rad fans on with A/C switch

Drivers side rad hose cool...passenger side rad hose and top of radiator very hot

Thermostat stuck closed? If so would this also keep the rad fans from operating normally?

thks in advance

 

Yes...the fan temp sensor is at the bottom of the radiator by the return hose, which is cold.

Ensure you replace BOTH seals for the thermostat.

Roger at 928srus will guide you on these -2- important thermostat seals when you R&R this.

 

speedtoys

thks for the confirmation. The car has been sitting for 3 years and I guess the thermostat seized.

 

Just a note: Just in case.
Do not remove the thermostat and run the car for any length of time....without watching the temp gauge....
These aren't our '70s GM/Ford/Chrysler cars.
Get a new T-stat and all the related bits, read up on the rear seal here on the list and carry on......

 

best pull the pump also, make sure the impeller is not all rusted...and damaging the block

 

Well, lets cure the cold, before worrying about terminal cancer.

 

A loose water pump impellor (the plastic ones spin on the metal ring) would not circulate the coolant....so check thermostat then check the water pump .....

 

What one finds when they sit too long.

 

^^^^ mmmm..... acidy!

 

it just keeps getting better...

It's timing belt time , actually way past , so I guess I'll do it all at once

 

good idea. My car sat alot also and I had a rusty impeller. it didnt leak, but it did leave some marks on the block surface.