My grandmother has a a 98 Lincoln Cont. and it all of a sudden ran hot and won't stop, what is the problem?

Question

she took it to the shop and they put in a new water pump and hose and it is still running hot! Please help!

Answer 1

Sounds like it could be a bad thermostat.  Engines run more efficiently at a certain temperature range.  When a motor is cold, the thermostat is closed and restricts the flow of coolant through the engine block and allows the engine to reach it's optimum temperature range sooner.  Thermostats are designed to open when a certain temperature is achieved, thus allow the engine temperature to be controlled.  It is possible that the thermostat is stuck in the closed position.  If you want to check for yourself, follow the top radiator hose from the radiator to the engine block.  Where the hose attaches to the motor, it should be clamped to a flange that is bolted to the motor.  Undo the bolts and underneath that flange is your thermostat.  Most new thermostats come with replacement gaskets, but have some silicone sealant nearby just in case it is needed.  And after the new one is installed, run the car checking for leaks, proper temperature, and also top off the coolant.

Answer 2

Do you know for a fact it's running hot, or are you just judging by the temperature gauge in the car. If that is your only source of the temp., I would check it some other way. Those can go bad, giving a false reading.

Answer 3

thermostat should have been replaced before the water pump. Sounds like it might be stuck closed.