I have a 97 T&C 3.8l v-6 that the temp gauge will start to rise as to be overheating while the a/c is on. If i turn it off the gauge goes back to normal. It does not do this if a/c is not used, i have checked the radiator fluid(ok) the overflow bottle(Ok) i put a new failsafe t-stat in last summer when i flushed system out. I also installed a new water pump last fall, i do not see any leaks under the vehicle or from any hoses or hose connections. I was coming home yesterday and noticed temp was rising so i shut a/c off temp went back to normal but when i got home radiator was a little low but not that much about a 1/2 liter or less of water i guess and engine did not smell like it was running hot and fans come on at the right time also i tested them by letting it run(after engine cooled off) till they came on with and without a/c on. i checked the small a/c rad in front of the engine radiator but i don't see any obstructions in it. Any ideas on what could be causing this problem?

 

do the fans come on when u have the ac on?

 

Yes they come on when when a/c is on. However i do not know how long they stay on. I did notice that if i used the button with the snowflake on it next to a/c button on control panel that it raised the temp quicker it seemed like but either way the temp rises w/a/c on.

 

Does it have the original radiator? If you climb a huge grade w/ A/C off does the van overheat?

 

take note if the fans come on and stay on and if they move fast enough to move air.

 

I don't know if it will overheat on a huge incline because i don't live near one large enough to see. I will take note of how long fans run with a/c on next time out on the road. Thanks for all the input on this matter i appreciate it.

 

If you rule out the fans, you can always have the radiator flow tested at a radiator shop. After 12 years.. you may want to replace it or have it cleaned anyway.