*Need suggestions* KA24DE Overheating! =(

[alanrps13]

Hi, I have a stock 92 240sx SE and is having overheating problem. Here is the story: I was driving on the freeway last night then I realize when I apply gas I hear a small rattling noise coming from the engine. so I slow down to about 50mph and then I look at the rear view mirror I saw white smoke behind me (It might be the coolant evaporating) then quickly I check the temp gauge it was already at the letter H, so I turn the ignition off and let the car roll to a safe place. after the car cools down, I pop the hood and realize there was a big crack on top of the radiator and the coolant from the radiator was all over the engine bay. so I thought I just needed a new radiator. next day I had the car tow to the shop. and have them look at it. first they replace a brand new radiator and cap, new thermostat, flushed and fill with new coolant, and new fan belts. after that's done, mechanic starts the engine and realize water pump needs to be replace because is leaking. so we did that.(...the pump they placed it with was a Paruat KA24E water pump, so I am not sure if that will work with KA24DE.) after that's done, mechanic went for a test drive and when he came back the engine sounded smooth and no leaking but still with an overheating problem . the mechanic suggested that it might be the head gasket that is causing the overheating. so at this point it already cost me $600 with all the repair mentioned. and another $750 on top for the head gasket work. I really don't hope I don't have to go down this way. Can mechanics perform test that can tell if the head gasket is causing the overheating problem? or maybe it could be a faulty thermostat? any suggest? the car is still in the shop. =(

Thanks!

Modified by alanrps13 at 10:50 PM 2/1/2010
Modified by alanrps13 at 10:51 PM 2/1/2010

[mutz22]

Yes perform a leak down test will tell the condition of the headgasket, valves, and rings. Also does the car overheat on the highway after all the service work. If not I would look into the mechanical fan clutch if it has not been replaced with electric fans already.

[alanrps13]

mutz22, from what the mechanic told me after the test drive, he said the gauge was reading at H right after he left the shop. but I'll ask the shop if they can perform a leak down test today.

[mutz22]

Make sure the system is properly bled of all air pockets, check the fan clutch and ohm out the coolant temp sensor.