Its an original engine from the '87 diesel with about 200K on it. Been running fine without anything but regular services for the last 2+ years. leaks a bit of oil as do most of these engines. We're due for a 60K service I think.

I drove about 10miles total (from work, to the emissions testing station and then to my wife's work) at which point I noticed the fluid coming from the escape port behind the R-front wheel. So normal in-city driving, not hot out, no special load.

In the course of these 10 miles I didn't notice the temp peg, so I'm hoping I didn't damage the engine....but then, I wasn't really driving too long.

What did the temperature gauge do during the 10 miles prior to the overheat?

If you didn't look at the gauge during these 10 miles, kindly be honest about that.

That's what I meant when I said I didn't notice the temp peg during the 10 mile drive....I didn't notice the gauge. Prior to today it has always run at normal temp, although I don't normally drive it since it is my wife's car. -harv

Well, without any knowledge of what the engine did prior to the overheat, my advice is to simply fill it with coolant while cold and take it for a drive.

Observe the gauge this time.........and note what it does. Don't stray too far from home and don't drive it if the gauge gets to 115°C. In fact, better head home if the gauge crosses the 100°C. mark. You won't have much time.

yup, I'll be doing that in a few hrs when I get off work. thanks