`05 columbia,MBE4000 cooling issues

I just bought this `05 Columbia w/ MBE 4000.So far it has been a nightmare.I`ve had to replace both thermostats(1 went to pieces and found its way to the water pump)the water pump,fan clutch hub,tention and idlers,EGR cooler and have the radiator cleaned and inspected.The temp gauge shows hot for no apparent reason,no load on etc. shut it down or idle overnight and it may read normal,even with a max load on.I think it`s a gauge wiring issue as I`m having other freak gauge happenings.I have another shop checking this out.The other cooling issue is circulation.It`s 5 above 0 outside,the temp gauge is showing 200F.The top area of engine and radiator show 124 with lazer and the bottom of engine and lower radiator hose are 34 degrees. I have good heat inside cab and my intransit heat lines at back of cab are warm.My mechanic has bled every line and connection he can find to relieve any air lock...still nothing.We are stymied by this.Never seen before and other mechs suggest what has already been tried.Anyone seen this before? The lower hose should at least be toasty warm.Is there a way that something is plugged and causing coolant to by-pass.Going broke fast and need a solution yesterday. Thanks in advance!!

 

I agree, but it made sense to replace the parts due to wear and already being torn down that far. I`m using a second shop because my employers shop cant dedicate a mechanic to resolving this problem at this time plus they have limited experience with Freightliners.The other shop does and can focus on the issue and solution. Laser temp gun was useful as we couldn`t STICK a probe in these areas and we were freezing our butts off. Up north I`m sure you know cold.Have you ever had a truck run that big a difference in temp from top to bottom??
Thanks for replying!

 

Temp gauge readings change from time to time. loaded or empty.The cooling fan has never come on and with the other gauge gremlins I`m thinking the engine isn`t getting that hot or gauge is not right. We sent the radiator to the local radiator repair shop that does big truck radiators also. they gave it a clean bill of health.

 

the other shop is addressing the gauge issue as the primary complaint.differential temp,pyrometer,voltage go irratic to in-operable and once the whole cluster died.the latest enigma is after the engine is shut down the check engine and parking brake light come on.I`m not sure if I need a mechanic, electrician or priest.

 

so I see from other posts on this site.

 

bottom of tank actually sets slightly below bottom edge of bumper.looks like they were trying to make it vulnerable to deer strikes.