Achieve Ideal Engine Temperature

Anthony Fontanelle
January 22, 2008

For years, Dodge has remained true to its goal of producing appealing vehicles that are not too heavy on the pocket. One of these is the Dodge Grand Caravan, the long-wheelbase version of the Dodge Caravan. It was designed for families who want spaciousness, value, and versatility in their vehicles. Since its introduction in the market, the Dodge Grand Caravan still remains a bestseller because of its constantly improved performance and features. Although it is basically a minivan which can accommodate as much as seven passengers, other versions of this vehicle are equipped with an additional seating and storage system. Now on its fourth generation, the Dodge Grand Caravan boasts of features like an enhanced style, a more comfortable interior, and a power liftgate. The Cargo and the SE versions are fitted with a 3.3-liter V6 engine that can deliver 180 horsepower, while the SXT version is equipped with a more powerful 3.8-liter V6 capable of generating 215 horsepower. With a minivan as functional and efficient as the Dodge Grand Caravan, going on family trips and hauling cargoes can be convenient and easy.

Before the Dodge Grand Caravan can literally run, however, one must note that its engine should warm up first. This is done with the help of the Dodge Grand Caravan thermostat. The thermostat is a 2-inch device situated between the radiator and the engine. Inside it is a temperature-sensitive valve which opens and closes depending on the temperature of the coolant. The thermostat works as the cooling system’s temperature regulator by preventing the flow of the coolant until the engine has already warmed up. Once the engine reaches about 200 degrees F or 95 degrees C, the Dodge Grand Caravan thermostat will start to open up. Hot coolant will flow away from the engine and into the radiator to cool off. It will then go back to the engine to absorb more heat after a few seconds. With the thermostat’s function, engine wear, emissions, and contaminant deposits can be prevented.

A faulty or damaged Dodge Grand Caravan can lead to serious engine problems. It can cause the hot coolant to be trapped inside the engine, resulting to overheating. Among the most common symptoms of a faulty Dodge Grand Caravan thermostat are overheating, low heater output, high idle speed, poor fuel economy, low temperature gauge readings, and acceleration problems. Car experts also say that a damaged thermostat can cause a failure in an emission test. It is then best to keep the Dodge Grand Caravan thermostat in top condition as often as possible.

Source:  Amazines.com