AboutDavid Scott Expertise Questions regarding the advisability of different kinds of modifications to Samurai/Sidekick/Tracker or various kinds of off-road usage. I will not attempt to do more than provide links for questions about other Suzukis such as Vitara, Grand Vitara, etc. I may or may not give generalized advice for newer models, but have no experience regarding newer models, and will not attempt to give more than the most generalized answers for questions regarding vehicles later than '93 manufacture. I will however, if possible, provide a link that will help you contact a professional in your region.
Experience I've been a professional mechanic for over thirty five years, live in the center of the Rocky Mountains, and have been active in exploring the old mining/4wd roads for decades. I've specific experience with Samurai modification, because that's my personal vehicle.
Education/Credentials Thirty five years of advanced, intensive classes for experienced professionals only. Manufacturer seminars and training classes averaging four to six weeks per year. I'm now a professional heavy duty fleet mechanic, and no longer deal with issues such as MIL (check engine) lights
Expert: David Scott Date: 4/26/2008 Subject: 1995 sidekick
Question While making left hand turns my temp gauge goes up then when I straighten out it goes back down. Recently installed a used head, prior one was leaking anti freeze into oil. Since replacement I have not lost any A-f but occasionally it runs hot on me, which I can bring back down by running heater. I have flushed the system an added 50/50, have heat in all hoses and cabin, no noise, drip or wiggle from water pump but have taken notice to a sometimes soft upper hose. There are 2 devices that run small coolant lines up around the air intake box they seem to run off of vacuum pressure , do you know what they are and might one be faulty?
Answer I suspect that there's a wiring issue involved. It takes longer than a single left turn for the temp to rise. Try wiggling wires, and inspect engine grounds. Loosen, inspect and re-tighten.
I am not familiar enough with later Sidekicks to be able to pull up a mental picture of that engine. Were you asking about a pre-90 Samurai, that would be a horse of a different color.
scotty
