In a message dated 7/19/99 6:01:40 PM Eastern Daylight Time, hrm200@erols.com
writes:
<< I'm new to the list and I had a question about my newly
acquired '70 B. It's been running very hot. I removed the thermostat, ran
it without it and it still runs hot. The water appears to be flowing
through the radiator when I rev the engine. Does anyone have any other
suggestions as to what I might check. Thanks. >>
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Hi Heather. Welcome to the list. Do you turn your own wrenches? This is
the place for help.
You can check your radiator to see if it has a blockage. Let the car cool
down completely, probably overnight. Put a new thermostat in. It's not good
to run with no thermostat at all. Take off the radiator cap and start the
car. When you see the coolant moving around it means that the thermostat has
opened. Let the car heat up for another minute or two. Shut the car off.
If you have an electric fan, unplug the wire so it doesn't start
unexpectedly. Feel the radiator all over. It should be warm all over. If
it has major cool areas, it has a blockage and should be cleaned (rodded) and
pressure tested. (An easy job for a radiator repair shop.)
Most likely you will find that the temp gauge is at fault. They are
notorious for giving false readings. Does the engine seem to be running very
hot? When you open the bonnet does it blast you with heat? Does the engine
ping when you accelerate? Look for indications of real overheating, rather
than relying on the gauge.
You can check the list archives for more info on testing the temp gauge. Go
to: http://listquest.com/hobbies/automobiles/british and search for temp
gauge.
Good luck. Let us know what you find.
Allen Hefner
'77 Midget
'92 Mitsubishi Expo LRV Sport
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