Replaced gauge temperature sensor - gauge now sits in the normal range!
Replaced the thermostat - the temperature does not fluctuate like before.
The old thermostat was partially open (closer to being closed than open) and the moving parts were off centre. Seems this was restricting flow and leading to an overheating condition at low speeds with the AC on - I have not yet driven enough to say the problem is fixed for sure but its looking good.
The electric fans are still going on there as the viscous coupling is $200 (Not inc shipping or tax), and the two 14" electric fans with a variable thermostat cost $214. Will have to fabricate a nice shroud for them but its still a better solution.
Changing the thermostat is easy - remember to get a new gasket as well.
- Take top radiator hose off (Coolant will leak onto the ground if the system was not drained)
- Lift the distributor cap (Makes it easier to get to the bolts and thermostat housing)
- Unplug the sensor in the thermostat housing
- Remove the two bolts in the housing
- Lift the housing out
- Take note of the thermostat orientation, and remove it
- Clean up the gasket faces etc
- Place the thermostat in - with the little plastic bead valve at the 12:00 position
- Place the new gasket on the housing and bolts
- Reinstall in the reverse order
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Black '02 Discover SII, Auto.
Black '87 Suzuki Samurai, rock crawler
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Black '94 Discovery SI V8i, 5 spd (Currently DOA)
--## If you have enough time to do something over again, you had enough time to do it right the first time. ##--
