Ok...this started w/ installation of a new cluster from Ebay (don't believe this is the cause, installed old cluster w/ dead odometer and the following). My 1992 Volvo DL-240 starts, nice idle, and runs, 131k miles. Nice "brick"



TEMP gauge goes to 9am and stays there for about 10 mins. Then TEMP gauge rises, nears RED, and may come down. lately just under RED, I turn on heater to remove heat which is plenty HOT. have done the following:


(a) drained /cleaned heat sys w/ rad clean-out 2x, new thermostat (87 Cel), new fan clutch, and installed water;
(b) timing is at 3 deg BTDC, not good
(c) all plugs are light "yellow: not good


Where do I start?? U guys are the best, appreciate any help


abro
Brattleboro, VT

 

this >>> 240 Temp Faker


solves the issue of phantom temp readings.

 

If it's not a phantom reading and it really is rising like you say it sounds like the early stage of a failing head gasket. I wouldn't jump to that conclusion yet but it's something else to look at and do a little research on.

.

 

verify the thermostat is opening (upper radiator hose gets hot), use an IR thermometer to check the temps of various spots across the radiator when the engine is at operating temperature, its possible your radiator has big chunks that are clogged up.

I assume when you said 'water', you meant 'water + 50% proper coolant' ? I've always used Zerex G-05 in these volvos and similar cars as its the same formula the factory used (although the original volvo coolant was tinted green, it was in fact G-05 HOAT). and I try to always use distilled water to reduce calcification.

 

...if this started with a new cluster, well, then the gauge is probably the problem. Verify if the engine is getting indeed hot.

 

think the OP would know very quickly if the engine is overheating...
my gauge does this up/down action all the time.. and sometimes does not register anything at all even though the engine is warmed up. i've learned to ignore it because i know the coolant is fresh and the water pump is new. now if the needle would go ALL the way up into the red zone, i'd be shutting the engine off right away.