Amazing overheating problem...desperate

[toolmanmike]

To everyone...thank you.
Problem solved. There was a rubber expansion plug in the water jacket. It started contracting at night and very slowly leaked water. In the morning, water level appeared full but once the engine warmed up it (Rubber expansion plug) expanded. Added water and the truck ran great for rest of day with no water leakage. Repeat problem every few days. I put a metal expansion plug in and all is OK.

Good to know 4 years later.

 

[ogden lafaye]

Rise the front of the truck about 16" higher than static, let it set over night w/ th4e cap off after filling , note where the level is compared to when u left it last night. = AIR

Thanks, rubber freeze plug!(trash item) leaking sometimes when cold/overnight and sealing up when hot. Erratic leak. All good now.

 

[ogden lafaye]

Might have to pull freeze plugs towards the rear of motor to see if there's a build up of rust& crud could be problem.

It was a swelling and contracting old rubber freeze plug. Lots of erratic behavior. Yes, there was a lot of crud and several cans of flush didn't help get rid of it.

 

[ogden lafaye]

Good to know 4 years later.

Site is easy to access now. Used to be a real pain to get logged in.
The 318 PU is doing fine, thanks for all the input. 16 years ago the odometer quit....3 months ago it started working again. Laughter...at least 200,000 miles if not many more. Love my 318.