Hi, my 1997 Blazer is frequently heating up so much that the gauge points into the red. I can turn on my heat and it will usually cool it down, but not always. I hear a popping/clicking sound behind my dash and then the temp goes down. Anyone have an idea of what might be causing this? Sounds like something isn't opening as it should to let out the engine heat. Any help is appreciated. I'd like to fix this myself. Thanks!

 

sounds like thermostat is sticking shut. Keep driving like this and you'll be replacing that motor. Check your oil,if its milky coffee creamer put a fork in it. its done.

 

So I should change the thermostat, and if the oil is milky like coffee creamer I should change the oil?

 

First off,check the coolant level.

Yes first step would be to change the thermostat with a new gasket. Put a thin layer of waterpump sillicone on each side of the gasket.

If the oil looks like coffee with coffee creamer,the engines done. Either cracked heads,head gasket etc.

If the oils like this theirs no telling how long you've been driving with water in the oil,the bearings etc may be wore out from the water mixing with oil. id advise have engine replaced by a qualified mechanic.