Overheating problems.

[Evofai]

So i have a 96 subaru legacy L 2.2L engine, I just recently replaced my timing belt and water pump(along with the thermostat) and my car still overheats. There isnt any oil in the coolant, and there aren't any signs of a blown head gasket. So im not quiet sure what could be the problem. There is absoulty no leaks. The top water hose gets really hot but the bottom one stays cold. So something isn't circulating correctly, maybe its not bled enough? Anyone else having this problem with this engine please help.

[harrymaneuvers]

Did you replace the thermostat with an OEM one? Was the one you took out an OEM one?

Here is the difference between the OEM thermostat and the Stant (autozone, advanced, kragen ect)

I personally have made this mistake and the result was overheating within a few minutes of driving after replacing the timing belt, water pump and thermostat.

https://sl-i.net/FORUM/images/imported/2010/08/DSC00412JPG-1.jpg

[Evofai]

Nah i replaced it with same OEM thermostat. I think i might have found my solution. Tomorrow morning i am going to rebleed the coolant to make sure there isnt anymore air blocking the cycle. Hopefully that fixes it.

[r3v_v3ng3]

Your fans coming on?

[Evofai]

Yep both fans turn on

[lord flashheart]

Ok so I would say check your radiator. If it is packed with build up, and or has bent fins, it might not be exchanging properly. If its not that then your overlooking something.
The reason the OEM thermostats are better is because the non oem ones have an anti corrosion coating, sometimes that makes them stick.
Here is what I think you should do.
Pull your thermostat and push on it to make sure its not stuck, boil it if you have to so you can see it functioning.
Pressurize the system to around 20 psi to make sure you don't have any leaks.
Test your cap.
Flush the system, and fill the coolant, start the engine. DO NOT PUT THE CAP ON TILL THE FANS COME ON.
if its still overheating, put a head gasket tester tablet in the coolant.