Dark Knight said:
I know those are good, my problem is that I can't find anyone that actually carries a good balanced thermostat for my Jeep. I must be a raging idiot because I haven't been able to find one after numerous internet searches and numerous calls to local parts stores. The Mr Gasket one I was asking about is suppose to be a re-badged Robert Shaw.
I did a search about the thermostat drilling and dang is that a controversial subject, but I think I will give it a try.
I also don't have an IR temp gauge laying around but my work has one if I need it. So far when the temp gauge starts bouncing I use the ultra precise hand-1"-over-the-thermostat-housing method.
And I doubt this thing has ever had anything on the coolant system serviced besides the coolant itself. What you are saying about the pump shaft seals sounds exactly what is going on though. I just hope that the parts I am getting solve the overheating and that the craptastic rad is still good.
If you haven't flushed in some time (it should be done every other year...) get some of the two-step stuff - the first step is oxalic acid (powder,) and you run that for a while. The second step is a neutraliser for the acid -
do not forget to run the stuff!
You can also get some of the "seven-hour" flush - put it in, drive around for a day, then flush it out.
Either way, blow the thing good and clean, then refill using coolant and distilled or R/O water in whatever cut is appropriate for your area (ain't always 50/50.)
DO NOT USE TAP WATER! Tap water contains dissolved metals and solids, and
will screw up your system with deposits. How fast depends on your local water quality and the age of your plumbing (out here, deposits form rather quickly.)
I've never fully understood the idea of a "balanced" thermostat - it's not like it moves or anything, so what's the trouble? It opens, it closes, liquid flows through it. No point in spending money you don't have to.
Also, what's "controversial" about drilling the flange? I've not noted any trouble, the holes are small (typically 1/16" or thereabouts - .0625",) and it does help purge air pockets in the cooling jacket - especially after an overheat or in the event of a head gasket leaking. I've never found a downside to doing it, so I've seen no reason to stop. It's been 18-20 years since I found out about it...
IR thermometers have come down in price as well - there's no reason you can't find a reasonably accurate unit for under $100, and they're quite useful (you can also use them to find out if you have a clogged section in your radiator, for instance.) I'm familiar with the "Boy Scout Hand Thermometer" method - but accuracy suffers due to individual tolerance for heat...