Car Overheating ?

[kdee10]

I have a 2005 XR6T, and today for no apparent reason it just started to overheat ??? I have checked the oil and water and all is full, checked under the oil cap, no froth..... thank god !!!! Wondering if anyone would have an idea of what could possibly by wrong ? I am thinking either a stuffed radiator or Thermostat, but I am very open to any suggestions.

Thanks if advance,

Ken.

[jasol]

you can check the thermostat by removeing it and putting it in a saucepan on the stove and watch to see if it opens as the water gets hot, as for cracked head or blown head gasket a few signs are bubbleing in the overflow, excess condensation in the exhaust, milky oil, might be an idea to get the radiator flushed/checked

were was the needle sitting on the gauge?

[kdee10]

It was heading over the half way mark, I stopped it from going any further by turning the heater and fan on full so that took it back down to in between the 1/4 and half mark. There is no milky residue in the oil cap at all, totally clean, no bubbling in the water so I am pretty safe with the head I think, well fingers crossed anyway. I have a prety good suspicion that it is either the thermo, or radiator, as when I get moving the needle starts to head upwards !! But I will take it down and get it flushed tomorrow anyway, if it is the radiator, oh well I will have to get a intercooler !! haha. If you have any better ideas let me know, also, stupid question, where abouts can I find the thermo on the engine ?

[jasol]

if you follow the top radiator hose back towards the motor the thermostat is under the cast alloy houseing think ther 2x12mm bolts and presto there it is

[kdee10]

Thanks for that mate, I will have a look tomorrow morning, as it is too dark out there now.

Appreciate the help.

[jasol]

ive attached a pic you can see the houseing at the front right hand side of the motor