Engine Running COLD...... WHY?

Maintenance/Repairs
1

I recently bought a 98 Dodge Dakota with a 3.9 V6.

The engine runs around 170 degrees and no more. I put in a new 195 degree thermostat, checked the coolant level and condition and NO change in the engine temperature.

I drove it around about (30) miles today and when I go home checked under the hood.

The top radiator hose was warm (not hot) and strangely, the bottom radiator hose was COLD. Not even warm… ?

I would think it the radiator was clogged or water pump not pumping correctly, it would be running HOT. Right ?

What the heck is going on with this truck ?

2

Check and see if the fan clutch for the radiator is locked up.

Tester

3

Also, if you’re getting good heat out of the heater, the temperature sending unit or the dash gauge might be off calibration.

4

The first thing I’d do is point a laser thermometer directly next to the coolant temperature sensor