Various issues with dud P38 any advise appreciated!

Hi

I should have known better but I bought a 1999 2.5DT off EBay with partial service history which has been breaking down pretty much from the moment I bought it.

When it was running it seem particularly underpowered. My mechanic reckons this may be a gearbox issue. It's alright on the flat but struggles with any sort of incline and the gear change from the auto box seems very slow.

Now it has started overheating. I have read through the overheating posts on here and here is what I have tried to date:

Obviously I thought head gasket so mechanic did a chemical sniff test from expansion tank which tested negative for exhaust gases.

Took off and checked water pump, changed thermostat

Removed radiator as it was not getting evenly hot, had it flow tested and flushed.

Bled cooling system

I have bought a new expansion tank cap but it has hasn't arrived yet.

I am pursuing the seller to get my money back but need to get the car working for now.

What about replacing MAP sensor? Any other pearls of wisdom appreciated?

Cheers

Alistair

Check map sensor hose to air intake manifold to see if its blocked as for over heating did the rad feel heavy? Its a sign of built up silt renember as rave say fill with water top up as Necessary when stabilised put cap on allow to warm by checking top hose passenger side , once warm ALlow to cool top up as needed . To remove any air blocks rev & 2000 rpm with cap off top up if needed cap on bobs your uncle

Try gearbox oil and filter maybe blocked struggling to let oil through.

Good luck