Messages

1

Engine + Driveline / Overheating after replacing rad pump thermo clutch fan

« on: September 17, 2008, 12:17:37 AM »

I'm pulling my hair out.  I replaced the radiator because the PO didn't.  Instead someone shoved the upper hose over the broken horn and put a fat clamp on it.  I switched the clamp to a proper OEM clamp an the problem showed itself in all its glory by blowing the hose completely off.  Since then I can get it to cool to normal range.  And I have replaced the water pump, thermostat, and clutch fan.

Here's what it does.  I fill it with coolant (50/50) and bleed it until no bubbles.  Put the rad cap on and it overheats to the point that boiling coolant is coming from the heater line into the expansion tank.  I am not getting any heat out of the heater - it blows cold.  Both the upper and lower radiator hoses are hot.  

So is the thermostat defective (paid $50 at the dealer for the proper unit 88*) or is the heater core and or heater loop plugged, or is the head or block cracked?

Also, it does not appear that it is using any fluid.

2

General Topics / $500 318is Update

« on: June 30, 2008, 12:49:13 AM »

OK you guys are really going to hate me.  I got it home and one spark plug didn't have the threaded cap removed and # 3 and # 4 plug wires were crossed.  It runs now.  I need to sort out some things: Oil leak, major tune up, trunk lock, filthy interior (I hate other peoples crap such as hair and french fries), blower motor, rt rear lense.  Someone started to strip the dash to get to the blower motor, so some bits are missing.  Mostly this car has been neglected because the owner was not an enthusiast.  Really all it neds is some sorting out and cleaning.      

The only major work I see so far is the suspension is worn, probably needs shocks, struts, and front bushings.

Here are some pics, before and after cleaning.

3

General Topics / New member + $500 318is

« on: June 27, 2008, 12:40:00 PM »

This looks like the place!  OK I always wanted a '91 318is and I just bought one for $500.  I haven't got it home yet, but it will be on the tow truck this weekend.

It starts but won't idle.  The PO said a spark plug backed out and it stalled.  They replaced the plug and that didn't help.  I think it needs a major tune up, or maybe there is a valve train problem.  Nevertheless the PO didn't really know her car and I gladly took it off her hands.  Great body (hers too) silver, no wrecks, decent interior (seats not ripped) - a diamond in the rough.

But glad to find this site.  Any things I should look for I would sure appreciate some tips.

Cheers, Arne - near Santa Cruz, CA