Annoying overheating problem, 1995 GA 2.3

[blankbanshee]

Hello,

I have a 1995 Grand Am GT 2.3L. It keeps overheating. I replaced the thermostat and the radiator. I haven't had the engine compression tested, but I don't believe it is losing any. There is no coolant in my oil. There is no smoke or coolant smell coming from my tailpipe. Every time it overheats, a strange churning sound comes from the engine and I can feel the radiator popping and groaning, almost like something is banging around on the inside. This has happened now with both the old and new radiator. The mechanic I took it to said that he checked the water pump and it was fine. But every symptom has pointed to a failed pump. Has anyone else had this issue before? I've had it up to here with this car and now I can't even get anyone to buy it. Essentially my options are scrap it and lose about $500 or take it to a different mechanic and pay them about the same amount to replace the pump, but I'm not sure that will fix my problem.

 

[melsg5]

are the cooling fans coming on at the correct temperature?

 

[blankbanshee]

yes

 

[melsg5]

the water pump is driven by the timing chain so unless it is leaking I cannt see how that is your problem.
have you tested the thermostat in a pot of water to determine if it is fully opening at the correct temperature?
has the cooling system including radiator cap been pressure checked?

______________________________

 

[blankbanshee]

the water pump is driven by the timing chain so unless it is leaking I cannt see how that is your problem.
have you tested the thermostat in a pot of water to determine if it is fully opening at the correct temperature?
has the cooling system including radiator cap been pressure checked?

Yes. Radiator cap, radiator, and thermostat have all been replaced

 

[melsg5]

I know the thermostat was replaced but that doesnt mean the new one cannt be defective. You can either replace it again or test it.
You also did answer whether a pressure test was run?