A few weeks ago the temperature gauge indicated overheat condition. We shut it down and let it cool to check radiator levels, radiator was full. After a couple of times using it the Head heater came on with every start and stayed on for 15 min. Ordered a new sensor and went to replace it last Saturday. I did not drain the antifreeze and when I removed the sensor no water came out. I could see inside the head and it was dry. Of course I installed a new sensor and the problem was still there. The radiator was still full. I now believe the thermostat may not be opening and if not, why didn't the engine run hot? Being that the radiator is full I would have to assume the situation has been like this since I bought the tractor because I check the radiator levels when I check the oil. I did buy the tractor used but it was in great condition and I have not had any issues at all. I have ordered a new water neck with a new thermostat that should be here tomorrow, then we will see if that is the problem. I have been told there is a way to bleed air from the cooling system but I have not been able to locate it. Any suggestions?
Temperature gauge indicates overheating but engine not hot.
- Thread starter DavidGS
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LS Tractor Owner
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Probably a stuck t-stat, but, could also be the water pump itself.
Normal "bleeding" of air procedure is to fill the radiator, start the tractor until the t-stat opens, fill radiator as the fluid drops / circulates. It will take a little time. When the radiator doesn't drop after up to temp, shut off tractor. Top off the radiator (if needed), and replace the cap. Make sure the reserve / overflow tank is properly filled. Let it cool down, double check radiator fill and reserve tank after totally cooled down.
After using the tractor, again up to temp, check the reserve tank. Let it cool down and check the radiator / tank again.
Normal "bleeding" of air procedure is to fill the radiator, start the tractor until the t-stat opens, fill radiator as the fluid drops / circulates. It will take a little time. When the radiator doesn't drop after up to temp, shut off tractor. Top off the radiator (if needed), and replace the cap. Make sure the reserve / overflow tank is properly filled. Let it cool down, double check radiator fill and reserve tank after totally cooled down.
After using the tractor, again up to temp, check the reserve tank. Let it cool down and check the radiator / tank again.
Stan B
Silver Member
Before vacuum coolant refill tools were common, when I'd drain and refill any coolant system, I'd part the vehicle up hill on the steepest hill I could find. Putting the water pump at the highest point in the system really helps pull all the air pockets out.
JimR
Elite Member
You can also drill an 1/8 inch hole in the new thermostat to help bleed the air out of the motor.
ruffdog
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Over the years I have seen t-stats that have a vent and others that don't. Some even had a jiggly brass piece in the vent. I've never had a problem drilling a 1/16" hole in the flange. Just put the hole toward the top.
LS Tractor Owner
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OP? ..... any updates?