1996 Dodge Ram 1500 water temp question

[Hick727]

Alright so today i went and test drove a 1996 Dodge Ram 1500. It was driving fine. Their was just a little vibration under the passengers floor board. Kinda felt like one of those pop out top mint cans. Thats not the problem though. When we were driving we noticed that the water temp was fluctuating between 200-215 degrees. I know its common for Dodge Rams and Jeeps to run at some what higher water temps but what im worried about is how the water temp went up and down so often. What could the problem be? Is the radiator clogged? Also, the fluid in the engine coolant overflow thing (which was practically empty) the fluid was rust red? I think it might need a new radiator and heater core.

[jeffreyd]

could be a loose wire sending a poor signal. what engine are you talking about and how many miles are on it? i have one that is an 04 and runs always just below mid line, since they do not put the actual temp on the gauge anymore. might have a water pump that is going south, thermostat, bad hose that is collapsing when accelerating, several other things.

[Hick727]

Its a V8 with only 98,000 on it. The truck is great otherwise. The guy is asking $3900. I offered $3500 and he said yes. Should i go through with it?