What's the problem: Radiator, fan, or thermostat

[JCQuick1]

I recently purchased a 95 240SX w/ Black Top SR20DET. The temp gauge and speedo don't work. The previous owner installed a separate water temp gauge. The fan turns on around 210F. Is that normal? Just driving around town the fan turns on and off constantly. I have a pretty big intercooler so I'm wondering if its restricting too much air flow. Should I just upgrade the radiator and fan or is there something else I can? I plan to do a coolant flush and add Redline Water Wetter with fresh water and coolant.

Also is it a bad idea to add Lucas Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer to Mobil 1 Full Synthetic 15W-50 oil? Please help, I'm pretty new to the SR world. Appreciate the help.

[Nismo_Freak]

Never add any additives to the oil.

210F is normal, the factory thermostat is set around 180F.

The intercooler does restrict and heat up the airflow. I would say that you would benefit from a radiator upgrade along with a nice 70 / 30 (more water than coolant) blend and yes the Water Wetter does work, as does building your own air ducting.

[JCQuick1]

Thanks for the help. So 210F is just when the fan should turn on? I'm just a little worried and I don't want to mess up my investment. I forget that the KA24DE had a thermal fan, that was contantly running with the belts.

[Nismo_Freak]

Yeah the fan should be clicking on around the 200 - 210 Deg. mark. The SR under acceleration and high RPM's will creep up to 200F pretty quickly due to cavitation in the water pump.

You can reduce cavitation by slowing the pump RPM with a pulley upgrade, but I would suggest first verifying the efficiency of your system before doing mechanical changes.

[S13240]

LUCAS IS CRAP!!!!