My moms car is having a wierd problem, I've just recently replaced the engine with another one. While the engine was out I also replaced the water pump, timing belt, tensioners, and balance shaft belt. Now here's the problem, after a long drive the coolant overflow tank starts bubbling like it's overheating but the temp gauge needle doesn't even go up half way.

Could it be that the coolant system might have air pockets?

Can anybody point me in the right direction as to what it might be?

Thanks.

 

Yes, that would be the first thing to check.

Then knowing what year the car is would help.

 

I'm sorry it's a '96. I'm also gonna run out and buy a new radiator cap right now.

 

That would be a cheap thing to try. Also when you bleed, be sure the heater is set to max, being sure to get any air out of the heater core.

 

koo, thanks for the tip.