Running a little warm.

Mr.Nice · Unread post by **Mr.Nice** » 28 May 2003, 03:28

OK, my big ole Pug tends to run a little hot for my liking. so far the elec fan keeps things safe but it's needed after standing around for only a couple of minutes and if I'm bimbling along country roads slowly (cornish roads you see). normal driving speed on bigger roads is fine unless I'm going faster than usual eg 80's and the weather is hot (get's hot here) then the fan is on all the time.
It seems to use coolant at about a 1/4 litre every 2 to 3 months.
Oil is changed regular, I'm not an 'energetic' driver.
Those metal coily things in the radiator don't look to be in the best of health with bits hanging out in a couple of places, could I need a new Radiator? or is the pump on it's last legs? or the thermostat not opening properly?
When the fan comes on if the engine is sat at idle it's cool enough for the fan to go off after a couple of minutes to the fan certainly helps.
Car is a 1990 405 estate n/a diesel.

CITMAN · Unread post by **CITMAN** » 30 May 2003, 23:18

new radiator is needed before you blow the head gasket? that if it hasnt already?

Homer · Unread post by **Homer** » 31 May 2003, 03:50

I had a leaking radiator which only leaked when hot, and even then only slightly. Rarely showed any signs of dripping because the water was evaporating due to the hot rad. Eventually it got worse and was obvious where it was coming from.
That was on a Xantia but I assume the Pug radiators are similar.

Mr.Nice · Unread post by **Mr.Nice** » 31 May 2003, 14:59

Would having a poke around for watermarks on pipes and joints help with checking if this is the case?
Was it the rad itself that was leaking?
I think it'll cost around £100 to replace.

Homer · Unread post by **Homer** » 01 Jun 2003, 02:30

The leak on mine was at the bottom of the radiator 'fins'.
As for cost I have no idea as mine is a fairly unusual model.

JohnD · Unread post by **JohnD** » 01 Jun 2003, 19:32

Radiators of this age group are noted for silting up. I read an interesting post on another forum (posted by Bob Smith) that it was caused by casting sand not being properly removed when the heads were manufactured. Be well advised - get a new radiator before you over heat and damage the head.