stevenbriggs

I didn't replace the timing belt...that's a bit out of my league. The service center did that for me. Otherwise, you're right - but all those things at once do not make for a happy pocketbook.

Yeah, me too. I'm hoping this is the last of the BS I have to deal with on this car. These 93's are supposed to be pretty reliable, from what I've seen...but so far, in three weeks time, here's a list of what I've replaced: Timing Belt. All other serpentine belts. Water Pump Brakes Thermostat (twice) Battery Alternator I've got to believe that it's going to run well for a while now, right??? heh. In all seriousness, I like this car alot...hopefully it treats me as well as I've treated it.

Just thought I'd give everybody an update. Went to my friend's today, drained the coolant, installed an OEM thermostat, and BAM! Fixed. We tested the radiator out beforehand, just by running a hose through it, and all was well. The thermostat (brand new, and installed by the dealer) was locked shut. That's what happens when they use cheap parts...glad I did it myself this time. Thanks to all for your help and suggestions!

Very helpful and sensible - thank you!!! I'll give that a go. I'm replacing the thermostat regardless...the idiots used a $5.99 thermostat...cheapest thing they could find.

Sorry...so many questions, since I don't know cars that well. I have a friend that does, but he's not available until later to take a look. If I drive it on a bad radiator, am I basically going to destroy the whole car, or what? Also, are radiators difficult to replace (particular if I have a friend that's good with cars)?? Thanks again for all the info - it's been very helpful.

No missing fins...not clogged. Everything on the radiator seems to be functioning properly. I'm so confused. :-\

That is all correct, except the bubbles in the coolant part - I don't know about that. Is there an easy way to tell if there are bubbles or not?

Yep - they're fine, too.

Nope. I'll let the car just sit there and idle, with the temperature right below warning, and it'll never go higher.

~145,000

Well, I also found another thread that said something about *never* using aftermarket/non-oem thermostats. The thermostat is not an OEM one, so I'm thinking maybe I should replace that?

The car needs to be running for a little while... 20 minutes or so. No visible leaks, and the overflow tank is stable at about half full.

I just bought a used Legacy L AWD. It has a brand new thermostat, water pump, alternator, battery, timing belt, and other belts. I've had the car for about 18 days. For the last three or four days, I've noticed the temp gauge run up to just below the dotted warning area. It has never gone into it, but often stays just below it. Is it normal for a 93 Legacy to run this hot, or is there something I should be looking at? Thanks for any help - I'd rather not destroy this car so soon after I get it. - steve EDIT: I have been searching a ton already, but I can't seem to find someone with this same problem...not sure if these things just run a bit hot, or if something is really wrong.