Lately my truck has been running a little hot. Not pegged out hot but just over the middle mark on the temp gauge. The thing is it fluctuates between normal and above the middle mark. I cant seem to figure out what it is. Ive got a good coolant level, replaced thermostat, rad cap, fan clutch seems in good condition. Next thing i can think of is something wrong with the radiator or water pump? The truck is a 95 with 4.0 OHV. Any help is greatly appreciated!

 

Remove the serpentine belt.
Does the belt tensioner move freely throughout its range of travel ?
If not , it may be slipping causeing the pump to run slow .
Next would be to remove the radiator hoses and check for cracking inside . Any cracks found are grounds for replacement.
Any odd coloring in the antifreeze , brownish looking bits floating ?

 

I just replaced the tensioner and belt. It was doing it before the replacement. When i was checking the coolant i did see some brown bits floating. Does this mean i gotta replace the hoses and flush the system?

 

The inside liner of the hoses becomes weak over time and can break down to the point where a "flap" can come loose and restrict coolant flow. Or the interior of the hose can collapse.
The brown bits floating could either be rust particles or engine oil .
If the latter , a head gasket may getting ready to give up the ghost.

 

Almost forgot
I've seen experienced mechs put a thermostat in upside down . May want to double check.

 

Thanks alot for the help! Im going to check everything over again. Im sure i put the thermostat in right. Installed with the loose nipple thing pointing to 12 o clock.

 

Pointy side up , spring down.