I have a 93 Civic hatch with a brand new ls-vtec turbo. Motor was just put together with all new parts. Got everything together and started. Went through all the proper steps. While trying to bleed the cooling system noticed the radiator was getting very hot and coolant was extremely hot. Temp gauge on dash showing just under half way. Upper radiator hose is hot to the touch but lower radiator hose has no heat to it at all.

Vehicle info:
Stock ls water pump
Bisimoto 170° thermostat (brand new)
Dual core radiator
Spal fan wired to always run

Think maybe a bad thermostat. I know factory temp gauges aren't that accurate but it has a brand new temp sensor and all wiring is good.

Any opinions greatly appreciated!

 

Were the hoses swelling from pressure?

 

No not that I saw. Didnt really let it go to long because like I said it's a brand new motor. Did want to let it go to long and it cause any problems

 

Test the Tstat in boiling water. I wouldn't run the motor anymore like it is.

 

That's my plan tomorrow