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In Reply to: Overheating Problems On A 1982 320i posted by Frank Weiss on August 19, 2000 at 15:41:03:
I replaced the thermostat with a low-temp offered by bavarian autosport. I also elected to replace the aux fan switch with a lower temp model. The most important thing I did was de-crud the coolant system with a flush designed for older engines, and de-crud the radiator air passages with a heavy duty de-greaser. When I used the flush stuff, after about 4-hours of driving with it in the system (per the instructions), I drained out a fair amount of rust deposits. I then back-flushed the cooling system in a reverse-flow direction, by removing some coolant and heater core hoses and GENTLY applying a garden hose. Additional crud was accumulated in the collection pan. I then removed the radiator, sprayed it with degreaser, and scrubbed the fins gently with a fine-bristle brush. When I sprayed it clean, I applied the rinse in a reverse-air-flow-direction. Amazing what had accumulated. When I replaced the aux fan switch, I noticed the old one's terminals were corroted with some spillover antifreeze that had once accumulated. This probably explains the lack f aux fan action.
Long story short.....dramatic engine temp reduction in traffic.....never goes above the halfway mark. Parts and material cost was about $40. I elected to replace all radiator hoses as well, for an additional $50.
Good insurance. The 320i engine does not tolerate overheating very well. Prolonged operation in the red zone will result in head warpage.
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.
Any suggestion?
Thanks in advance.
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