i bought a 84 firebird last week and the temp gauge was around 220 just after 10 mins of idling. so i got a 160 thermostat installed it didnt drain coolant adn the heater core had to be replaced so i did that but the way the guy had it the pump hose was connected to the intake hose. so i put everything back the right way and the motor was overheating at like 240. so i drained the coolant refilled it and now its still goes to 240 after 5 mins of idling i have a mechanical fan. the worst part is the temp gauge doesnt wanna go below 215 with the car off or on. What should i do??? i really need help..

 

does ur fan turn on when it hits around 200*?

 

its always on its belt driven

 

and i dont even know when the engine is at 200 because the gauge needle wont drop fromn 215

 

are u sure its overheating or is the needle just high?

 

the motor wont stay running after it goes past 240 i have to hold the gas pedal down a little.