: : 1. The shocks are really bad, and I'm planning to change them within the
: : next few days. However, I want to know if the bad shocks are the cause of
: : the car wandering violently on uneven road surfaces, or could it be a
: : problem with the steering or suspension? I'd like to take the opportunity
: : of replacing the shocks to fix any other problems the car may have with its
: : suspension and/or steering?

: Loose suspension components will contribute to car wander.Just replacing the shocks will not fix it.Check the: 1.Tie rods 2.Control arms 3.Thrust arms for wear of the balljoints and bushes.

: : 2. The car sometimes overheats in traffic if I turn the ignition off and on a few times, maybe to save fuel. However, leaving the engine running for upwards of 30 - 45
: : minutes continously does not cause it to overheat. Is there something wrong with the
: : cooling system?

: Why the need to turn off and on in traffic?Leave it running if you have to.The fuel cost is minor compared to the cost of a head job if it does overheat.

: : 3. Related to the above: Will changing the thermostat to one with a lower
: : temperature rating reduce the engine running temperature, and therefore the
: : tendency to overheat?

: Changing to a lower rating 'stat will affect the operating temp of your car.Mine used to indicate at slightly above 1/4 gauge(too low).The I replaced to a higher rating 'stat (85 C)if I can remember,and now it is rock steady at mid mark.

: : 4. Is there anything called a 'tropicalised' radiator, and will fitting one
: : help my cooling system?

: Don't think so.If there are local made ones with three water passage rads,then maybe.

: : 5. What is wrong with fixing the fan clutch so that the fan runs all the
: : time? Everybody says not to do it, but they never give a reason.

: Energy wastage is one.If the fan is fixed,then it will give cooling when it is not required ie. when you are cruisin' on the highway.

: : 6. Output power and acceleration are much reduced with the air conditioning
: : on. Fuel consumption is also way up. What could be causing this?

: Have the a/c compressor checked and belt tension as well.Excessive drag on the engine will cause hi consumption.

: : 7. Fuel consumption is like 17 - 19 litres / 100 km. I feel this is
: : excessive. Is it? The engine has 217,000 km on it, but does not smoke.
: : Idling is slightly rough - not so noticeable though.

: The archive search will give you more info that you need to fix the defects on your car.

: moots '90 520i