tnewbery · Feb 23, 2012

So here is a question - why is it that p38's and in particular the petrol versions are so prone to overheat? I dont mean what are the causes of overheating (blocked rads, viscous fan etc) but rather why is it such a fine line between ok and overheating.

It just seems to me that there is no spare capacity in the cooling system on these vehicles. I do wonder if another auxilliary radiator and fan could be fitted somewhere in the system to give a bit more cooling. Mind you god knows where you could put it!

just a thought for discussion really!:scratching_chin:

dogsbody · Feb 24, 2012

I think that you've missed the most important point - age.
The cooling system is perfectly adequate if it's working correctly.
But, the rad has been battered by air, rain, grit, insects etc. It's the lowest part of the system so you could be carrying a load of crud in the bottom. The pump and fan have been working valiantly for ten years or more.
However the first time that most owners investigate anything is when the gauge rises too high, or the steam appears. Like anything mechanical a bit of preventative maintenance shows up any issues before they become critical and extends the working life.

Mr Rowland · Feb 24, 2012

You have got to remember that oil is a also a coolant, keeping this changed at regular intervals helps alot. Flushing the radiator every year or so to clean all the muck out of the system is a good idea. If heads are fine, not warped or gaskets gone or liners havent dropped it will be absolutely perfect.

DB is right age is a big factor as long as you keep it well maintained you should be fine.

Datatek · Feb 24, 2012

dogsbody said:
I think that you've missed the most important point - age.
The cooling system is perfectly adequate if it's working correctly.
But, the rad has been battered by air, rain, grit, insects etc. It's the lowest part of the system so you could be carrying a load of crud in the bottom. The pump and fan have been working valiantly for ten years or more.
However the first time that most owners investigate anything is when the gauge rises too high, or the steam appears. Like anything mechanical a bit of preventative maintenance shows up any issues before they become critical and extends the working life.

Odd if all that is true that other cars do not suffer to the same extent with all these overheating problems.

dogsbody · Feb 24, 2012

I love Datatek

Even when he shoots you down in a flaming wreck, it's still elegant.

Datatek · Feb 24, 2012

dogsbody said:
I love Datatek

Even when he shoots you down in a flaming wreck, it's still elegant.

:hysterically_laughi:hysterically_laughi

tnewbery

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Datatek

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