Itasca Suncruiser Overheating

[Rocadog]

I have a 2006 Itasca Suncruiser, 35U, with an 8.1 Vortec on a W22 Workhorse chassis. On a just completed trip with friends that have the exact same rig, I experienced engine overheating (Check coolant temp) warning when pulling long passes. My friend is towing a Subaru Outback (I am not towing) and he had no issues.

Coolant level in my rig is OK, but the reservoir is full when hot - my friends reservoir is about half. I'm not sure if my electric fan is coming on - I swapped the fan relay with the coach AC relay and can't hear it coming on when the coolant temp rises (my friend can hear his kick in).

Looking for some thoughts on potential causes/solutions...Thanks!

[Clay L]

I can't hear my electric fans come on but I can hear the engine fan engage. It makes a loud roar. Is yours engaging?

It will spin when the engine is running but doen't engage until the air coming through the radiator reaches a set temperature. On the older 454 engines the temperature was above 165 degrees. I don't know if it is the same on the 8.1L or not.

[bruceh]

There are many discussions of this in the Workhorse forum. Recently, I added 'Surprising Cooling System Fix'. There are many others.

[edgray]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rocadog I have a 2006 Itasca Suncruiser, 35U, with an 8.1 Vortec on a W22 Workhorse chassis. On a just completed trip with friends that have the exact same rig, I experienced engine overheating (Check coolant temp) warning when pulling long passes. My friend is towing a Subaru Outback (I am not towing) and he had no issues. Coolant level in my rig is OK, but the reservoir is full when hot - my friends reservoir is about half. I'm not sure if my electric fan is coming on - I swapped the fan relay with the coach AC relay and can't hear it coming on when the coolant temp rises (my friend can hear his kick in). Looking for some thoughts on potential causes/solutions...Thanks!

Rocadog: Welcome to iRV2.com! As bruech suggested, please visit the Workhorse chassis forum (down below). You can start a new thread there or do a search for previously posted info.

Among the many threads there you will find lots of info regarding the necessity of keeping your "air dam" in good working order, the operation of the fan clutch (not the electric fans), and the proper way to verify that your radiator is actually full ( the overflow tank is NOT always a good indicator). Any of these subjects MAY be the reason for your overheating problem. Good luck, and again, WELCOME!
Ed