I drive a 96 Standard Mustang, 3.8 V6, and havent had much problems with it, until lately. Temperature gauge has been redlining within 5 minutes (+/-) of 45-50mph driving. My unknowledgable self decided to fill the resevoir with extra water. Now Im overfilled with water. Upon opening the actual radiator cap, I found it to be near empty. I cant seem to find where to drain my radiator, and use the hose to flush it, and all that good stuff, I've done a good bit of reading about the procedure, I just cant find the petcock valve. Any info is much appreciated. (First time poster btw). Thanks in advance

-Kenny

 

Welcome to the forums Kenny. I can't answer your question myself, but post this question in the V6 section of the forums. I'm more than positive a few people there can help you easily.

 

your t-stat may be bad or your radiator could be taking a dump on you.

 

sounds like a leak.

 

But he said it's now overfilled...wouldn't that point to a bad t-stat. I've had the samesymptoms with my 5.0 and the t-stat was sticking shut. Just my .02

 

sounds like a leak.

 

Easy answer then, hey Izzapac, any puddles?

 

could only leak under pressure, such as when he is driving. that would explain no puddles.

 

This is easy.Take the radiator cap off and start the engine.Let it idle until it reaches operating temp.If the coolant circulates normally you're loosing coolant somewhere.Maybe a slow head gasket leak.
If no coolant circulates but steam comes out it's probably the T-stat.
Beware of live steam suddenly shooting out of the open radiator.

 

I see what your saying 94lstang, but I just don't see why he would bother to mention that his tank is overfilled if it was a leak. He could just drive it and it would leak out no problem. My money's on a t-stat, but you could be right as well. Just do like Chopper said and you'll know for sure then. Good luck!