I have a 1997 Acura Integra LS with a GSR head. I am having trouble getting the thermostat to work, i.e. there is no coolant going back to the radiator and the engine overheats. I replaced the thermostat and had the same problem. I also removed the thermostat and there was proper coolant flow back to the radiator. I don't know if this is related but the heater is not working. I am not sure if the coolant piping is correct (don't know if a pipe is reverse?) since I took out the motor to put in forged pistons and rods. Is there any way any of you can get me a coolant piping diagram or a picture of proper piping? Thanks a lot.

 

I wont rule out improper re-installation but I would bet that you still have air in the system, I would just crack open as many hoses and fittings as possible to try to bleed off the air all over the place. Put the garden hose into the radiator filler port and use a helper to hold it there tight, wear your rain gear.

My link to the parts diagram does not seem to work, do a search for Majestic, there is a free Honda parts pics available, I will have to relink it I guess, it is all over the forums, when I click on them it does not work here either?????

 

Have you considered the possibility of a faulty water pump?

 

The water pump is definitely working. Would an air pocket prevent the thermostat from opening? The problem is that the coolant doesn't flow back into the radiator.

 

bump

 

One cause of a fluctuating idle on Hondas is air in the system, the coolant sensor is right there by the tstat, if it does not sense water, then it is not hot enough to control the idle, hot air only registars when its boiling hot and too late. Start bleeding everywhere you can with the garden hose pressurizing the system too.

 

the cooling system is supposed to be a sealed system if yuv got any leaks or cracks or openings that could cause it not to flow right. check for any leaks or dried coolant in yur engine bay

 

Thanks for the help everyone. One of the pipes was on wrong and there was a lot of air in the system. My car runs finally!

 

Could you please elaborate on the pipe issue that was corrected for the archives and thanks for posting your FIX.