Re: Engine cooling repair.
Posted by Panamint Charlie on April 27, 2004 at 23:56:18:
In Reply to: Engine cooling repair. posted by Don on April 26, 2004 at 12:12:43:
On my main Desert 4x4 I run a radiator designed for the Turbo Charged version of my vehicle. It has a extra core and has a high flow rate. Once while running the falls on Surprise Canyon I noticed the temp was not in the hot but a few hairs higher than normal. I checked the coolant level and found the system was less than half full. I Found a pin hole in a by-pass hose but the engine ran cool. Of course my wimpy 4cyl doesn't generate much heat.You can also see if a diesel application radiator will fit in your rig.
Bar's Leak or Aluma seal works on most any small pinhole leaks. The repair kits are cheap but worth every penny in the outback.
Denver's recommendation that you don't remove the thermostat is completely true. Many smaller size radiators cannot handle a unrestricted flow of coolant.
I once managed a garage and I have seen many people limp in only because they thought to run their heaters. It might be hot and uncomfortable but so is walking ten miles of hot blacktop.
Drew's idea of the mister is great to. I have seen the same thing improvised in the field by using the windshield washer pump. As the temp rises a few pushes on the washer switch and your back in check.
One last thing I have seen way to many times is People will have their cooling system flushed before a desert trip. This is a good idea but should be done at least two weeks or a few hundred miles before making your trip. The reason being is that worn water pump seals may hold up fine till the system is power flushed. After a short while you will begin to see the weeper valves on the water pump shaft crying.
Don, This was a great and timely topic to bring up. Thanks!
Happy Trails,
Charles