2.4DW in VW LT - Overheating on short runs - no load

[blix99]

So, it's been a massive delay since i last posted but, this is because of lockdown and much work to do, I haven't had a chance to actually drive the van any great length.

However, I finally got to give it a proper run on it's 'maiden' camping trip - this 2.4DW engine is in a 1980s VW LT Karmann motorhome.

Anyway, just to recap - after much work trying to get the engine running properly after the previous owner had running issues and didn't drive it for four years prior to us getting it.

This involved a service, timing belts, a new injection pump end seal (it was drawing in air / leaking; the main running problem), timing the pump properly, new injectors and glow plugs, local fuel return hoses, fresh coolant and several new thermostats, it was still overheating, according to the dash gauge - the needle of which sat the overheating zone on the gauge and the red led flashed, even after half mile journeys and on cold days (5 to 10 degs C)

So, after checking (and rechecking) the rad, reservoir, coolant hoses, thermostat the last thing I finally did was change the dash gauge.

On our recent journey, the gauge sat between the middle led and the hot zone for about 30 mins then dropped to just above the middle led, I guess when the thermostat and rad cut in. This was in around 20 degs c outside temp.

So, problems seems to be solved and I'm happy. My blood is caked on the engine block, my sweat and tears evaporated : ) It's be a journey but thanks for all your help.

I appreciate everyone's input.

Thanks very much.

[ngoma]

What a relief!

I have mixed feelings over the fake overheating problem.

Feeling good you finally solved the problem.

Also feeling good we gave correct helpful info to solve this problem (in post #s 8, 13, 21, 23).

Feeling bad you had to suffer all that angst dealing with the fake overheating over the whole time.

Final score 2-1, put it in the win column. Hoping you get to enjoy your ride in the upcoming seasons.

[v8volvo]

Yes great to hear the successful outcome. Thanks for circling back to let us know how it turned out.

You really earned the good result with a lot of head scratching and stamina, blood and sweat. But got a lot of good work done along the way too, what with the timing belt service and cooling system refresh plus the injection pump overhaul. No question it will all pay off in reliability on your future travels with it. Cheers!

[blix99]

Thanks very much both of you.

I appreciate it. I recently bought an old side-valve motorbike that I can't get running now. I must enjoy this stuff in some deep recess of my brain.

I'm a glutton for punishment, I guess : )

Cheers

[barkster1971]

MEYLE 028 280 0001 THERMOSTAT COOLANT. Currently £9.16 on ebay . This is the 80 degree one.