Help,help,Help

[DMGRS]

It sounds to me like a blockage somewhere - explaining why short, slower journeys are OK but a larger thermal load is causing an overheat.

I'd start with a full coolant drain, flush and check the radiator and heater matrix for flow - finally, bleed properly when refilling (which is an art in itself).

[SD1too]

Originally Posted by thomasgoudie1956

Hi, Tried the test that Rich done 19...then 7... first time I was getting 90/95 ..

That's absolutely fine.

The fan when I done the test came on for about 5 seconds... then off for 30 seconds...then back on again for 5 seconds then off again for 30 seconds and kept repeating this.

That indicates that your slow speed has failed; a very common fault indeed. This will cause your engine to run too hot and possibly overheat in some circumstances.

Peer through the radiator grille at the fan shrouding. Can you see a silver rectangular resistor with a wire at each end mounted at the two o'clock position? Please report back.

Simon

[Ps3000]

This is what you're looking for (I cheated in this picture as I already had the front bumper off.

[thomasgoudie1956]

Originally Posted by Ps3000

This is what you're looking for (I cheated in this picture as I already had the front bumper off.

I can't see anything but I will check again tomorrow(Wednesday)

Thank you,

Tom

[thomasgoudie1956]

Hi again sorry I have not been around but had to work.
Drove today for about two hours without any problems at all??
Is it the new thermostat that was put in(has it kicked in?) I don't know but I was in town traffic very slow then duel carriage way for a bit then slow traffic again, I tested the temperature when I got home and it said 90.
Don't know what's happening but I will keep you in touch and once again thanks.

Tom

[SD1too]

Originally Posted by thomasgoudie1956

I can't see anything ...

Tom,

As you cannot see a resistor and your car is a year 2000 model, you probably have the original 2 speed 3 brush fan motor. Your previous evidence (cyclic operation) indicates that one of these brushes has worn down to its minimum length. This means that instead of your fan running when the engine reaches 104°, it won't run until it reaches 112° which is much too hot for comfort on any engine, particularly the 1.8 litre. Not only that, but because only two brushes are operational the motor will run only at slow speed. MG Rover designed the system to run at fast speed at this temperature. In short, by continuing to drive your car you are putting the head gasket at risk and sooner or later the worn brush will fall out of its holder, enter the rotating motor armature and cause terminal damage. Your engine will then overheat and you will break down.

Tom, you must act now. If you are sure you have no resistor then you need a replacement fan system. Club member Arctic will help you with this. I'm afraid that ignoring the evidence and crossing your fingers is not very sensible.

Simon

[thomasgoudie1956]

Hi Simon, Thanks very much I will get a replacement fan system.

Tom

[thomasgoudie1956]

Hi Simon, I have just looked at the fan and I have noticed from your picture that where the resistor goes' I have the bracket there for a resistor to go on but no resistor?? Any ideas if this is the two speed or three?? if its the two how do I go about putting a resistor back on?? sorry for my ignorance.

Tom

[thomasgoudie1956]

Hi Simon, just seen a picture of the three speed fan and it looks like that's what I have, I will contact Arctic as soon as possible.

Cheers

Tom

[SD1too]

Originally Posted by thomasgoudie1956

I have the bracket there for a resistor to go on but no resistor?? Any ideas if this is the two speed or three?

1.8 engines always have a 2 speed fan system.

... if its the two how do I go about putting a resistor back on?

Early cars like yours (built in 2000) had a different fan circuit which did not need a resistor. So you cannot easily add one to your set-up. You will need to replace it with a resistor system from Arctic.

Originally Posted by thomasgoudie1956

Hi Simon, just seen a picture of the three speed fan and it looks like that's what I have ...

No you haven't Tom. You have a 2 speed fan without a resistor. Are you DIY-minded? You could take off the front bumper assembly and see for yourself.

Simon