Check the thermostat. Easy way - feel the upper radiator hose after the motor is up to "normal" temp and engine is running. If the hose isn't very hot, your thermostat is stuck closed, and not allowing the coolant to circulate and cool down the motor. Thermostat should cost around $10-$15, plus an arm and a leg in labor at a shop, or 1/2 - 1 hour of time at home. When a water pump goes bad, it usually will "weep" or leak coolant when the engine is running, and there will be a smell of coolant, as well as a low coolant level. Another post has mentioned the failure of the cooling fan to turn on, which is another item to check. Often times when this is the case, the vehicle will overheat when in slow city traffic, or idling (basically when there is not much air going over the radiator), and won't overheat when your driving down the highway. Good luck!
Had the same problem....turned out to be the water pump.
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mine 99 montana is in the shop for the same reason we found that the coolant fans are not working. Turn the a/c on and see if your coolant fans next to the radiator are coming on. if not chk all fuses if their good then find someone who has great electrical test equip. I may have an answer for good tomorrow.
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