B275 not reaching operating temperature.

[Dan The Machinist]

I've got a 1962 B275, really like it and works great. I've owned it now for 1-1/2 years and when I first bought it I noticed that the temperature gauge wasn't working so I just kept a close eye on the coolant level until I had time to look at it. I finally replaced the temp. gauge with a new one and still the needle doesn't move. So frustrating! I now decided to test and see if the new gauge is good which I should of done with the old one. I took the sensor out of the top of the engine and put it in boiling water and the needle went up telling me that the gauge is good. Does anyone know what could be the problem, I'm thinking thermostat but want to double check with experienced people and if that's the case how big of a job is it to change it on this tractor?

Thanks,

Dan

[hair bear]

No experience at this keyboard. The thermostat is the best place to start. It's about £5 to replace, and from memory it's hiding in the top of the water pump. Only three bolts and (cheapskate warning) a homemade gasket. While you're at that end of the engine, check the rod that steadies the top of the rad is secure - they can fall into the fan and cut a near perfect circle in the rad.

[Dan The Machinist]

Ok, thanks, will check it out!

[hair bear]

Oops, sorry! I priced in £ not Can$.
Now, the first assumption I made was that it is a diesel engine not gas. Hopefully when you pop it out it will be jammed open and obviously stuffed. Or missing completely - not unusual. I ran one daily for a couple of years and it always ran very hot when pushed. It's possible is it overheated when worked hard and the stat was taken out.

[Dan The Machinist]

Yes, it’s a diesel. Should I just leave it and not change or check the thermostat, after all it is running well.

[essexpete]

Dan I guess it is still quite cool in Canada? How about partially blocking the front grill in cold weather and see if the temp rises?

[hair bear]

I would take a took at it. It would be a happier engine and where you are located less chance of the fuel waxing. Far more importantly though, you can't cook your lunch on a cold engine.