I have a 84 toyota pickup. It normally runs about 1/4 on the temp gauge. Now at times it seems to be running just above mid way. Drops down a little at faster speeds. never really hot though. I am thinking fan clutch. Should I hear the loud roar of the fan when first driving like on my 95 runner. You know the sound. then it goes away after the firs 20 seconds or so. Should I hear the fan kick on when the motor gets hot. I am looking for sugesstions on what to listen for as I dont trust myself with the kite string trick. I would really hate to bust a fan blade. When the motor is cold, I cannot stop the blade with my hand, I have not tried any tests with stopping the blade while motor is hot. P/O didn't hardly ever drive the truck, now I am using it as a daily driver. Thermostat maybe going? dunno.... Truck has about 150k.....thanks for any feedback

 

You can try replacing the thermostat and see if that makes a difference.

 

It should not make near as much of a roar, but when cold the fan clutch should be near locked up (ie very tight)

 

check the coolant and over flow make sure ther full if they are replace the themostat first its a quick fix and make sure it has a burping hole in the plate installed at the 12 o clock if is ha s no burping keep looking for one untilu find one with it when replacing coolant turn heater on full blast

 

I really hope that what I just pictured in my mind is not what you are doing.

 

yes it is, but was wearing gloves...

 

Its process of elimination and a thermostat is a good start.
but that clutch fan should be roaring to life at operating temps or higher.

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85 Toyotap/u 4X4 & matching trailer
SBC 327 (and its too damn powerful)

99 Toyota 4-Runner 4X4
(wifeys)

69 Kaiser Jeepster Commando 4X4
(27k original miles, my daily driver)