1987 Toyota Corolla Runs hot until I turn heater on

1987 TOYOTA COROLLA
143,000 MILES • 4 CYL • FWD • AUTOMATIC
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MJSBEARS
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My daughter's 87 Corrolla has recently starting running hot. The higher the speed the hotter it runs. By turning on the heater, this does bring the temp gauge down a bit. There are 2 fans blowing on the radiator and both work. Coolant level is good.

Is this a bad thermostat or plugged radiator?
Jun 1, 2010 at 11:47 AM
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MHPAUTOS
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Hi there,

I would change the thermostat replaced as a matter of course, and get the radiator cleaned as i feel that it may be part blocked, a flush will not be good enough, a full core clean is required.

mark (mhpautos)
Jun 1, 2010 at 7:36 PM
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MJSBEARS
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I replaced the thermostat and things seem to be fine so far.
Jun 7, 2010 at 3:04 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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OK, thats a good sign then, just keep an eye on the temp gauge, if it starts to pendulum, (going up and down, not staying steady) do the radiator as well.

mark.
Jun 7, 2010 at 4:47 PM