Idiots guide to temperature problems?

steviepip · Postby **steviepip** » Thu Jun 25, 2009 9:22 am

I have just replaced all the brake calipers and rear springs/shocks on my 87 V12.
My last journey in this car was to the spares day and at that time had no problem with engine temperature.
Yesterday however I took the cart on a gentle run to test the brakes fully. I was only out for about 5 minutes but when I got bak the temp gauge was through the roof (not literally).
Can anyone tell me in simple terms the best way to find out what the problem is?

Many Thanks
Steven

MichaelSB · Postby **MichaelSB** » Thu Jun 25, 2009 10:32 am

Accepting you had a full cooling system then the most likely is a sticking thermostat which is cheap to replace so best start there.

steviepip · Postby **steviepip** » Fri Jun 26, 2009 7:57 am

I checked the water level last night and although I topped up about 1 litre there was obviously a reasonable amount.
I will need to check more horoughly for air locks though.

I can easily see thepassenger side(I can never remember if that is classed as the left or right side) thermostat but can't as easily see the other side. I havent got a haynes manual for a photo. Are there any other links showing the position?

Is it a case of following the top hose from that side an the first block of metal houses the stat?

steviepip · Postby **steviepip** » Tue Jun 30, 2009 10:23 am

I re-checked the system including opening the air release valve and was able to top the water up a little more.
Sat in the car and started the engine.
The gauge started to rise then suddenly dropped again. After that it sat on normal while I revved teh engine then took it for a 2 mile drive and back again.
I think it was a stuck stat so when I next get chance I will give it a flush through, new water and antifreeze plus also check / replace the stats.

Steven