overheating

OVERCOMING OVERHEATING PROBLEMS

       Many of our MGs have developed overheating problems as they have advanced in age. Keeping an engine
running in the black isn’t always easy. Even now, when
the weather is cooler, it’s not always easy to keep
the temperature down.
First you need to determine the various components of
the cooling system are operating correctly. The
radiator should be clean and free flowing. If it needs
cleaning the radiator can be removed and delivered to
any of our area radiator shops. They can clean out the
radiator and pressure test it to be sure there are no
leaks. If the radiator needs to be recored, many
times, it is cheaper to buy a new radiator than to
repair the old one. Visually inspect the water pump to
be sure there are no leaks during operation. Check the
fan belt to be sure it has the correct tension and
isn’t worn or cracked. The thermostat for our area
should be in the 160 degree range. It can be removed
and heated in a pan of water on the stove. By using a
candy thermometer you can determine the thermostat is
opening at the correct temperture.
The next test should be to determine if your temperature
gauge is operating correctly. In order to perform this
test you may have to search out a repair facility.
Even though your gauge says your car is overheating,
you need to determine the actual temperature of the
water.
Make sure your engine is in tune and your timing is
correct. If you have a rubber bumper MGB, you need to
determine that your cooling fans are operating as
designed.
Fill the radiator with a mix of anti-freeze and water
but never put more anti-freeze than 50%. While
anti-freeze will help lubricate, help stop corrosion,
and keep water from freezing, it will reduce the
cooling ability of water. There is a product available
called Water Wetter which helps control overheating.
It is added to your radiator and will reduce the
temperature up to 20 degrees.