Hi, I've not looked at this sidekick yet ~wanted to hear your thoughts first. What do you think it could be?
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Mechanics special. 01' grand vitara, 2.5L V6, 4x4, automatic. 198xxx miles. Runs great besides a random over heating issue. Passes smog. A lil rough on the outside. Been a great vehicle, just tired of trying to chase the problem. I've replaced radiator, water pump, thermostat and still over heats sometimes. Come take a look. Asking $650.00.

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Thanks

I have a 2.7L with a 5 speed automatic, and have experienced random overheating issues.  As my drivetrain is squeezed into a 93 2 door, there is a big difference between vehicles, but my solution has been an oil cooler for the transmission, and a good 3000 cu.ft. fan replacing the auxiliary fan.  I route the transmission oil through the oil cooler, then the radiator and back together transmission.  That way I am not over cooling the transmission, but still taking a load off the radiator.  As that wasn't sufficient when crawling, I replaced the auxiliary fan (in my case the only fan) with a 3000 cu.ft. fan.  Haven't had problems with overheating since.
The solution may be as simple as replacing the fan clutch, or a good tune up.
Enjoy your new project.

BRD HNTR, Thanks for coming back.  I may take a look at this with a buying eye.

If I pick the one up I'll let you know~


Richard

Well, this car was just driving out when I contacted the owner~I wasn't meant to get it.