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Re: Overheating Problems On A 1982 320i (archive)
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Posted by Carl Mc on August 19, 2000 at 21:52:06:

In Reply to: Overheating Problems On A 1982 320i posted by Frank Weiss on August 19, 2000 at 15:41:03:


I live in a very hot climate (routinely 105+ in Summer months). The temperature of my 320i rises drastically and dangerously when at a standstill (making the afternoon commute sheer Hell for me).

It seems to run coolest with a mixture of mostly water (80/20) and overheats much more quicky at a standard 50/50 mix.
Should be one or more of these causes:
1. Thermostat--after fully warmed up, check with hand lower radiator hose, should be almost as hot as upper radiator hose--if not replace and ask for a 71 degree tmostat.
2. Auxiliary fan--should come on at about 2/3 on the temp guage. If not, check that and switch at left side of lower radiator.
3. Check engine settings--timing and mixture--adjust to spec.
4. RADIATOR--It may LOOK very good, but they do have a lifetime, after 5 years is suspect. They simply loose their "starch" to cool adequately. Replace.
5. Guage/sender out of spec., rare but possible. Take the radiators temp with a general purpose (automotive) guage and read at the opening.
6. Lastly, but bad--generally worn out engine. Replace/ rebuild engine.

Carl Mc
ex BMW factory tech 1975-82

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