overheating 2L petrol - any new ideas?

[mikeonb4c]

This looks like a typical water coolant FLOW problem, owing to the fact that the engine was still overheating with the thermostat jammed open. I would think that is the Specialists have not carried out this procedure ,,, they need to have the radiator removed and tested, all associated hoses and pipes removed and examined for "breakdown/separation of the internal rubber causing obstruction"
the pump unit flow and pressure rate should also be tested, Sarah the reason for it mainly overheating going up hill is because of the extra load /revs on the engine and the cooling system cannot cope.

My apologies to the Specialists if these tests/examinations have been carried out.

Good Luck.

It does rather sound like the problem may be in this area. Out of interest, how expensive is that kind of investigation likely to be and what could be done to fix the problem if it was determined that the channels in the engine block were obstructed. Very bad luck to have trouble of this sort with a 2l, which is usually the least expensive to own of the 3 engine types.

[Simon Jones]

If the water pump is functioning ok, then the most likely place for flow restriction would be the radiator as this where the sediment tends to settle. Pattern parts can be bought for as little as £60 although I would be tempted to pay a little more to get one recommended by one of the usual Bongo suppliers.

When I fitted a new rad, I tested the capacity by filling it to the brim with water and it took exactly 2 litres as I recall. This is a crude but effective method of checking how clogged up it is.

[Transporterman]

Blocked radiators usually weigh a bit more than the replacement, always gives you a good feeling that you are going in the right direction as you pick up the two together. The collapsing hose theory is a good idea. I've read here and elsewhere that the top hoses especially are prone to this. (Not sure if the 2.0 is affected though). Good luck with your search anyway!

[Simon Jones]

Would there be much opportunity for pipes to collapse when running at positive pressure of up to 1.1 bar?

[g8dhe]

I've seen a pipe, not on a vehicle, that the inner layer had separated and bent backwards with the flow causing a massive obstruction! Having a generator fail in a telephone exchange in the past wasn't appreciated, batteries only lasted a few hours!!!

[Simon Jones]

Fair point Geoff. Possibly tricky to isolate such a problem with most of the rubber hoses contains kinks to hinder visual inspection.

[Transporterman]

Any luck yet jonno?