temp. question

[DIESELMAN7.3]

I have a question on my 1997 ford power stroke 7.3 the temp. gauge doesn't hardly move even when warmed up... it doesn't even reach the N for normal stays very low... i know that diesel's run cooler but shouldn't it at least make it up to the normal reading. jus wonderen and of ya'll that have close to the same year model or know what it could be let me know please. thanks

[DIESELMAN7.3]

does any one have any ideas on this?

[mschn99]

im curious if you live in a colder climate. ive seen diesels during really cold months (below zero....i was born and raised on montana) that dont even make it into the normal range. some guys put covers over the grill to keep the cold air from being able to reach the rad as well. during the winter, it is not that uncommon for them to run colder if your in a colder winter climate.

[DIESELMAN7.3]

I live in arkansas so sometimes it will get a bit below 20 but it runs like that even during the hottest part of the summer when its like 95 or a 100. what u think now

[mschn99]

sounds to me like your y-stat MAY be sticking open......they do tend to run cold, but normally they at leask make the O in normal.....although yours may just run cool....tough to say. i guess the big thing is that the normal range is just that, and as long as its in it, there should be no issue.

[DIESELMAN7.3]

well what is the y-stat? and it doesn't even make the N for normal.

[mschn99]

oops, typo....i meant t-stat....which is short for themostat.....

[DIESELMAN7.3]

k thats what i was thinking but jus wanted to check...if it is sticking do i jus need to buy a new one or will it work if i mess with it.

[mschn99]

u will need a new one. the rubber after time can deteriorate and cause it to stick open (runs cold) or closed (runs hot). they are relatively easy to change on the 7.3's, basicaly just three bolts. make sure you get a t-stat gasket also, it is just an o ring, but they usually dont come with most t-stats.....