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  #1  
Old 07-09-2012, 09:42 PM
Joao Joao is offline
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Default Thermostat?

Just joined the forum. Have a 2003 Ranger with a check engine light, and a OBD II PO 597 code (thermostat heater control circuit open). From poking around online seems like replacing the thermostat/ housing is the way to go; however, I have also noticed the smell of coolant over the last month. No leaks on the ground though and negligible reservoir loss.

Before I spend the money on replacing the thermostat / housing could a small coolant leak in any way set off or contribute to that code? Any feedback would be appreciated!
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Old 08-06-2012, 05:30 PM
Joao Joao is offline
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Default Re: Thermostat?

Sort of surprised that I got no feedback with all the Ranger experience out there. I seemingly have solved the check engine light / PO597 code issue with my 2003 Ranger. I found a small coolant leak which started to grow on under side of the metal tube that runs out of the coolant reservoir with splits off into the heater core and back of the engine. Since I didn't have the cash to replace it, I used a bottle of radiator stop leak for the first time in my life. Gawd! Flushed system, put stop leak and new coolant in; drove the vehicle for about 45 minutes. Leak stopped totally in a few days. Deleted the code. It hasn't shown back up since then. Have subsequently come across this link under tech notes which does seem to suggest coolant leaks can set off that code.

http://engine-codes.com/p0597.html
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Last edited by Joao; 08-06-2012 at 05:35 PM.
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Old 08-06-2012, 05:35 PM
94mtx 94mtx is offline
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Default Re: Thermostat?

Replace it when you get a chance... Sorry you put stop leak in such a new vehicle... If it was something like an '89 Taurus I would say go for it, but stop leak is a sad sad substance to put in anything you love.
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Old 08-06-2012, 05:43 PM
Joao Joao is offline
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Default Re: Thermostat?

Yep, evil stuff it is, and embarrassed I had to use it, but will replace properly when I can.
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