Got a bit of a problem with my Mk1 Polo 1100cc. It’s overheating!
I’ve checked all the usual stuff and I suspected the thermostat since the car runs fine until it’s warmed up, when I would expect the thermostat to open. The radiator and expansion tank never actually get warm, but the rest of the hoses (and the block) get very warm indeed!
I tool the thermostat out and tested it in a pan of water, it opens around 85 degrees and then fully opens about 90 – 100 degrees so that looks okay. It was all bunged up with rusty cr@p in the housing though so I’ve cleaned it out. Does the thermostat only go back in one way as mine will fit either way and looks like it’d work the same either way around?
Anyway – anyone got any ideas? The radiator isn’t blocked and I’ve flushed the system – I still suspect the thermostat or perhaps the expansion tank cap although the seal in there looks fine.
Help!
![Confused :?](./images/smilies/icon_confused.gif)
Cheers
Stu