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Bristol Kit Car Club Meetings - Events - Motorsports - Weather => Track Day and Motorsport Chit-Chat - Click Here => Topic started by: Gary RH7 on 29, December, 2015, 07:06:35 PM

Title: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 29, December, 2015, 07:06:35 PM
Thought I would start a new thread on this. Seems the best thing to do.

Firstly thanks to FHO, Lucky Ed and Benchmark 51 for looking at the Hood today.

When I built the Hood I put the radiator in front of the engine the same distance it was in the Dolomite donor car. The guys noticed today that the radiator is no where near the nose cone, far too high so the air was not being directed towards the radiator, therefore not through it.

I was bet 50 quid that putting a panel under the nose cone towards the radiator would improve the cooling but after sitting down and looking at the situation I decided to go the whole hog and move the radiator saving one of us 50 quid.

I have moved the radiator further forward and mounted it on a bar where the nose cone is attached.

(http://s3.postimg.org/4eguudbq7/20151229_174033.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/4eguudbq7/)

The radiator was mounted just in front of the yellow fan.

Now the distance between the hose and the radiator has to be sorted.
(http://s14.postimg.org/6dbag9nvh/20151229_174049.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/6dbag9nvh/)
Two lengths of 30mm and one 20mm SS pipe will sort this out.

Now the radiator fits snugly inside the nose cone.
(http://s9.postimg.org/ylg2ru16j/20151229_174615.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/ylg2ru16j/)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Iancider on 29, December, 2015, 08:00:03 PM
That is the value of direct observation.  Also don't forget to put a couple of deflector panels either side to prevent bypassing air.

Nice hooters by the way! :D
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 29, December, 2015, 08:02:05 PM
Bloody hell Gary, you don't mess about do you!! You were only hurtling down messy lanes with us in that a few hours ago!!! And as for the £50, what £50, got any witnesses?? ha ha ha!!!

Can't wait to see if it works  :)  It certainly will have air going through it now mate!!!!  8) 8)

I know it goes without saying but I'll say it anyway, make sure it is REALLY solidly mounted Gary, the force of air on that rad at speed will be pretty enormous, you don't want it to get forced backwards and pull off a pipe or something like that!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Lucky Ed on 29, December, 2015, 08:02:53 PM
That looks loads better Gary, you should get some decent airflow through the rad now. You might still want to block off the sides if the problem persists, it made a big difference to mine.

Fingers crossed FHO won't be getting £50 :o

Soz, I was a bit slow with my reply but I'm happy to be a witness!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 29, December, 2015, 08:07:02 PM
Quote from: Lucky Ed on 29, December, 2015, 08:02:53 PM
That looks loads better Gary, you should get some decent airflow through the rad now. You might still want to block off the sides if the problem persists, it made a big difference to mine.

Fingers crossed FHO won't be getting £50 :o

Soz, I was a bit slow with my reply but I'm happy to be a witness!

Grass!!!

I was more worried I'd lose my £50 - phew!!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 29, December, 2015, 08:18:15 PM
Quote from: Iancider on 29, December, 2015, 08:00:03 PM
That is the value of direct observation.

That's exactly what we said when we were looking at it Ian. You can go back and forth on the forum but a good eyeball makes all the difference.

Just measuring up for the extension pipes I have just realised that because the radiator has moved about 400mm further forward will also increase the water capacity.

I think with this modification it should improve but if there is still a little overheating the waterless coolant will defiantly put it to bed.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: damouk on 29, December, 2015, 08:22:30 PM
Looks like a good job, ducting the air so it can only go through the rad will also make a massive difference. If your fix works (fingers crossed) then the other thing to consider is to remove the directly connected fan, you could free up 10+ horses
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 29, December, 2015, 08:28:21 PM
Quote from: damouk on 29, December, 2015, 08:22:30 PM
If your fix works (fingers crossed) then the other thing to consider is to remove the directly connected fan, you could free up 10+ horses

What,,, that will take me over 100BHP. Could I cope :-\ I was able to keep up with FHO and Lucky Ed today so its not that bad
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 29, December, 2015, 08:31:39 PM
I think Gary plans to remove that old fan and put the electric one on the other side of the rad to which it was on so it sucks through and is not blocking air flow, that'll aid cooling even more.

I don't think you will have any cooling problems after that Gary tbh mate. Super cool!!!  8) 8) 8)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: damouk on 29, December, 2015, 08:46:03 PM
Quote from: Gary RH7 on 29, December, 2015, 08:28:21 PM
Quote from: damouk on 29, December, 2015, 08:22:30 PM
If your fix works (fingers crossed) then the other thing to consider is to remove the directly connected fan, you could free up 10+ horses

What,,, that will take me over 100BHP. Could I cope :-\ I was able to keep up with FHO and Lucky Ed today so its not that bad

I'm guessing you will notice the difference then! :-)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 29, December, 2015, 08:53:15 PM
Considering the power Gary your car is pretty quick mate. The one thing I have realised when going out with other kit cars is just how much EXTRA power you need to make any real difference in real life road driving. On a track it's a bit different but on the road you need a good 100 extra bhp to demolish another car I reckon!!

You were tailing me with your 95bhp, I was tailing Ed with my 150bhp and Ed has 200+bhp and none of us was leaving anyone for dead were we! Maybe it is road limitations, or nerve!!!!

I laugh these days when I hear guys talking about how they have got another 10 bhp out of their Corsa or Focus and how they will be able to leave everyone in their dust on the road!! Gonna be disappointed lads!!!!!!!!!  ;D
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Lucky Ed on 29, December, 2015, 09:09:04 PM
Quote from: Facial Hair Optional on 29, December, 2015, 08:53:15 PM

You were tailing me with your 95bhp, I was tailing Ed with my 150bhp and Ed has 200+bhp and none of us was leaving anyone for dead were we! Maybe it is road limitations, or nerve!!!!


I'll try a bit harder next time then :o   ... but seriously I was running out road and nerve in the greasy conditions, and my car is a nightmare on uneven surfaces with the large amount of camber it's running ;)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 29, December, 2015, 09:27:26 PM
To be honest guys the car was a pig before I got Camber Dave to go through sorting it out and also changing the 24 year old tyres made a difference as well. The only time I felt left behind was when we turned a corner and I had to make a double hand shuffle to get round slowing me down. A high ratio rack would sort that out but £180.00 for a re-con? Not sure.

I don't think the car would be much good on a track but I might give it a go one day just for the hell of it.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 29, December, 2015, 09:27:56 PM
I doubt anyone could go much quicker in those conditions Ed. I was very on edge at times, it felt very slippery indeed!!!

On a good dry road I would have been even further behind you than I was I know that much.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 29, December, 2015, 09:30:27 PM
Quote from: Gary RH7 on 29, December, 2015, 09:27:26 PM
To be honest guys the car was a pig before I got Camber Dave to go through sorting it out and also changing the 24 year old tyres made a difference as well. The only time I felt left behind was when we turned a corner and I had to make a double hand shuffle to get round slowing me down. A high ratio rack would sort that out but £180.00 for a re-con? Not sure.

I don't think the car would be much good on a track but I might give it a go one day just for the hell of it.

I used to think that about the Tiger Gary, kinda that it wouldn't be that good, but tbh if I could get it through the noise test I would do it in a heartbeat!!!

Take the Hood round Combe mate, you will absolutely LOVE IT!!!!! (PS. sort the coolng out 1st though  ;D ;D :P)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Iancider on 31, December, 2015, 10:00:52 PM
Agreed - every car has to do one track day at least!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Hairy Santa on 02, January, 2016, 01:34:43 AM
is the overheating cured ?

when does it overheat ?

did you clear the both heater pipes so the water runs freely ?

is the electric fan full size for the rad ?
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 02, January, 2016, 12:06:08 PM
Quote from: Hairy Santa on 02, January, 2016, 01:34:43 AM
is the overheating cured ?

when does it overheat ?

did you clear the both heater pipes so the water runs freely ?

is the electric fan full size for the rad ?

I still have it all in bits waiting for parts.
It  overheats on the motorway at this time of year doing 70 to 80 MPH and of course on a hot day.
The modification of moving the rad into the nose cone requires new water pipes but the old ones were free anyway.
I have an electric fan which is the largest I could find to cover the rad. I am doing away with the engine fan and waiting for a new smaller fan belt for just the pulley and alternator.

I am still in two minds whether to get an oil cooler. Rimmer Bros do a kit for £160.00. Might be worth fitting while it is all in bits.
When these old Triumphs were built over 40 years ago I don't suppose they sat on motorways doing 70 MPH for a long time. Makes you wonder why oil cooler kits are being made and sold for the old Dolomites now.

So, it is sill work in progress and I suppose with this weather its a good time to do it.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: 'The Gaffer' on 02, January, 2016, 12:56:40 PM
This has probably been covered elsewhere? but have you considered the water pump itself? Is it clean and pumping well? Is the thermostat working correctly? Maybe try a high capacity electric water pump?
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 02, January, 2016, 01:38:15 PM
Quote from: 'The Gaffer' on 02, January, 2016, 12:56:40 PM
This has probably been covered elsewhere? but have you considered the water pump itself? Is it clean and pumping well? Is the thermostat working correctly? Maybe try a high capacity electric water pump?

I took the thermostat out some time ago.
I have thought of the water pump. When I extended the internal heater bypass hose I had the car ticking over while it was warming up. The bypass hose was not getting hot when the others were so I gave it a little rev up and the hose got hot so I am assuming the pump is doing its part. Also there is a filler cap above the thermostat housing and with that off you can see the water getting agitated when revving it up.
I have thought of an electric pump and the Dolomite club do a mod replacing the mechanical pump with a device which diverts the water correctly.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: 'Mendip Wurzel' on 02, January, 2016, 02:03:51 PM
I am surprised you have overheating problems looking at the size of your radiator, which looks more than adequate and the electric fan fitted should have a big effect. Sounds like circulation could be a problem.

You can often purchase cheap second hand oil coolers on ebay, as opposed to purchasing a new unit. I have a largish oil cooler on my kit car (from ebay) that I pump water through to aid cooling. I reckon this has more effect on cooling than pumping oil through it.... I may be wrong.

I have additional electric fans just blowing onto the engine..... and also I have fans on the outside of the radiator.... got 5 fans in total, so as you probably guessed I have had my fair share of overheating problems. The fans all come on at different temperatures, when they are all on I become a hovercraft!

Kevin
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Iancider on 24, January, 2016, 09:31:46 AM
Quotewhen they are all on I become a hovercraft!

Chitty, Chitty, Bang Bang!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 31, January, 2016, 10:29:08 PM
As I posted on Paintman's "Oil Cooler for the Hood" thread that I fitted an oil cooler with fan thought I would continue here as I still have a problem with heating.

I have spent quite some time looking on the Net after talking to Camber Dave. He mentioned timing could not be advanced enough.

The timing for the Triumph 1850 is 11 degrees BTDS which is where I have set it. BUT as I am using unleaded the Dolomite club say set it to 16 degrees BTDS because unleaded burns slower. If it pinks try 15 degrees.

So that's the next exercise after the timing light arrives from E-bay. Thought I might buy one rather than borrow as it will always come in handy.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 31, January, 2016, 11:39:56 PM
I think that at the speeds you are using on the road, the oil will not be getting that hot. If it is controlled by a 'stat , then not much oil is being let through to the cooler. So I don't think you will see much difference with the cooler. What ignition system are you using?
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 01, February, 2016, 08:31:30 AM
Quote from: benchmark51 on 31, January, 2016, 11:39:56 PM
What ignition system are you using?

Hi Dave,
It is a bog standard Lucas dizzy. No electronic...yet!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 01, February, 2016, 08:48:41 AM
Ok, does it have a vac' unit on it and does it work? Also underneath the base plate there are centrifugal bob weights and springs that can sieze up and or break. These can put your ignition timing way out at driving speeds. Of course the fix is to go electronic but it would be good to find out if the dizzy has faults.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 01, February, 2016, 09:43:04 AM
Just fitted a recon dizzy last year.  I have done a SUCK test on the vac advance and the plate does turn a bit which is what I expected.
If I remember correctly the overheating was there before I swapped the dizzy so I think the mechanics will be OK.

When I get the timing light I will check to see if the timing advances to about 30 degrees when I rev it up.

I am not to clued up on electronic ignition. The one I fitted to my Ford Crappy years ago just boosted the spark. Wore the plugs out but not the points.
Anybody recommend electronic type/make. I assume the weights and vac advance will still need to be working on the mechanical side.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 01, February, 2016, 10:26:56 AM
I doubt it's the dizzy then. Do you see any evidence of a water leak? On your expansion tank you have an overflow, try routing the pipe into a open bottle to see if any water is let out during a run. There was a problem with the reach of the pressure cap not being sufficient and releasing too early. This would gradually dump water out and take in air, which would progressivly get worse until overheat happens. Even a brand new cap could do this.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 01, February, 2016, 11:08:59 AM
Quote from: benchmark51 on 01, February, 2016, 10:26:56 AM
I doubt it's the dizzy then. Do you see any evidence of a water leak? On your expansion tank you have an overflow, try routing the pipe into a open bottle to see if any water is let out during a run. There was a problem with the reach of the pressure cap not being sufficient and releasing too early. This would gradually dump water out and take in air, which would progressivly get worse until overheat happens. Even a brand new cap could do this.

Have a look at the filling point and expansion tank Dave. I am not getting any overflow from the tank at the moment but I have in the past during hot weather. I HAVE fitted a new cap, it does feel tight and I can see the indentation on the seal where it sits on the tank.
When I fill up with water I squeeze the rad top hose to make sure the water goes down the copper pipe to the expansion tank to make sure there is no air trapped anywhere.


(http://s22.postimg.org/lt9x9cxnh/Filling_point.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/lt9x9cxnh/)

Just thought of something after reading your input. When I fill, I put the water in the filling point where the stat would sit. I do not fill the expansion tank be full to the brim so there is air in it. This air is just being compressed and the pressure is not building up. I think this would cause a problem?
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 01, February, 2016, 02:33:33 PM
On your expansion tank, the pipe connected to the engine allows for water transfer to and from the engine. So I assume there is an internal pipe inside the tank that is always immersed in water?

(http://s28.postimg.org/i1zhdifqx/tri_ex.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/i1zhdifqx/)

On the ford expansion tank the pipe allowing water transfer is always covered in water, so no internal pipe. The other pipe connection on the ford tank connects near the thermostat housing and allows air bubbles to escape to the tank


(http://s9.postimg.org/u9mgtc86j/ford_ex.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/u9mgtc86j/)

I suspect that expansioned water being transferred to the tank is unable to get back to the engine, but air is, thus causing an air bubble which gets progressively bigger. What do you think?
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 01, February, 2016, 03:34:01 PM
The internal pipe is always immersed in water so air would not get back to the engine, only water.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Iancider on 03, February, 2016, 08:44:26 PM
Gary,

You mentioned about a retrofit electronic ignition.  This one below replaced the rotor and contact breaker but uses the existing coil - it will give you a fatter spark, better combustion and more accurate timing plus more reliability.  It retains the dizzy mechanism for advance.
http://www.accuspark.co.uk/accuspark.html (http://www.accuspark.co.uk/accuspark.html)
Here's another
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lucas-25D-25D4-POWERSPARK-electronic-ignition-kit-/110581394489?hash=item19bf2a2c39:g:hPsAAOSwrmdTrDZy (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lucas-25D-25D4-POWERSPARK-electronic-ignition-kit-/110581394489?hash=item19bf2a2c39:g:hPsAAOSwrmdTrDZy)
And Lumention probably the best known brand
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lumenition-Fitting-Kits-FK116-Lucas-22-25D-series-/321453077282?hash=item4ad818b322:g:SrIAAOSwirZTt9RU (http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Lumenition-Fitting-Kits-FK116-Lucas-22-25D-series-/321453077282?hash=item4ad818b322:g:SrIAAOSwirZTt9RU)

Regards
Ian
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 04, February, 2016, 11:45:23 AM
Thanks Ian,
Got the Accuspark on order with a sports coil. Just under £50.00 ;)

Cheers,
Gary
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 04, February, 2016, 05:34:33 PM
There's is a lot to catch up on in this thread Gary so help me out here mate, did moving the radiator not do the trick?
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 04, February, 2016, 06:44:15 PM
Quote from: Facial Hair Optional on 04, February, 2016, 05:34:33 PM
There's is a lot to catch up on in this thread Gary so help me out here mate, did moving the radiator not do the trick?

Sorry to say it didn't. I even put an oil cooler in at the same time but no difference so that's why I am thinking of timing.
I have also bought some water additive which is supposed to lower the temp by 30 degrees F. Don't know if it will work.

Last resort is waterless coolant but with an ally head I am worried it will get too hot and warp.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: paintman on 04, February, 2016, 07:42:05 PM
Just thought Gary.....you using standard plugs?

If it's modded at all it might well run cooler with colder plugs fitted.....my Hood runs well on 2 grades cooler than
original!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 04, February, 2016, 08:01:02 PM
Quote from: paintman on 04, February, 2016, 07:42:05 PM
Just thought Gary.....you using standard plugs?

If it's modded at all it might well run cooler with colder plugs fitted.....my Hood runs well on 2 grades cooler than
original!

Never heard of them. Could you tell me a bit more about them. I will also check the net.

Thanks
Gary
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 04, February, 2016, 09:03:57 PM
Quote from: Gary RH7 on 04, February, 2016, 06:44:15 PM
Quote from: Facial Hair Optional on 04, February, 2016, 05:34:33 PM
There's is a lot to catch up on in this thread Gary so help me out here mate, did moving the radiator not do the trick?

Sorry to say it didn't. I even put an oil cooler in at the same time but no difference so that's why I am thinking of timing.
I have also bought some water additive which is supposed to lower the temp by 30 degrees F. Don't know if it will work.

Last resort is waterless coolant but with an ally head I am worried it will get too hot and warp.

I am truly shocked at that! I would have bet good money that moving the rad would have sorted it. Baffling!!

I hope you get to the bottom of the problem soon mate.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 04, February, 2016, 09:22:21 PM
I think yours uses Champion N12yc which is hot. Try N6yc which are cooler. We used to change plugs  on lotuses, as people that didn't 'boot the car now and then ended up fouling the plugs.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 29, February, 2016, 12:37:16 PM
I was looking under the car at the weekend as the exhaust was blowing a bit from the manifold to the downpipe and the MOT is coming up soon. I bought an exhaust manifold months ago as I saw a new one cheep so I thought I would replace that at the same time. One bolt head turned slightly but the thread didn't so I thought leave that for another day and concentrate in the little leak.

Looking under the engine at the lower manifold bolts I saw a problem :'( :'( :'(

(http://s11.postimg.org/y0tp31u27/20160227_122430.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/y0tp31u27/)
The head is the grey part and the block is black if that helps.

I have no idea how long it has been like that. I am getting no water in the oil or oil in the water and I am not loosing much water that I know of. Anyway it does not look as if it is poring out anyway.
I wire brushed it all up and gave it a rub down with an oily rag so I can see if there is still a problem. I have also re-torqued the head down.

Dave Gallop has suggested this http://www.steelseal.co.uk/ or http://www.kseal.com/uk/head-gasket-repair/ but admits he is not an engine man and suggested the forum.

So, any head experts out there? I know the best solution is do the gasket ASAP (big job for me so might have to pay someone :'() but with such little water leaking would this cause overheating?
Any suggestions on a way forward?

Thoughts please ;)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: sanzomat on 29, February, 2016, 01:31:20 PM
Hard to say just from looking at the picture. Have you got the system up to temperature and had a look whilst the engine is running? If you see water/steam escaping then something definitely needs doing. It might be possible that the rusting is just historical.

If it is leaking but only slightly then I can't imagine that it is the cause of your overheating but could have been caused by it. It is possible that you'd get some localised boiling that would cause a pressure spike in the block but that would most likely quickly dissipate to the rad/expansion tank and vent off through the cap.

Overheating of the engine itself can cause HGF, especially with a cast iron block and aluminium head (looks like what you have). Not sure if those chemical treatments work - I'm always sceptical but as long as they don't clog anything up then it might be worth a go. If the HGF was caused by the engine overheating then it might just go again though.

One other thought. If your head gasket is blowing from cylinder to water you might be getting the symptoms of overheating without actually overheating. The pressure loss from the cylinder could go into the cooling system and vent off through the radiator cap giving the impression of boiling over. If your HG is leaking at the fire rings then I'd be surprised if anything out of bottle would fix it but I've been surprised before!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Vindicator on 29, February, 2016, 02:05:47 PM
Hi Gary, looks like it's been leaking a for a little while. Just a thought (for what it's worth)..... the head around the exhuast manifold by the bolt appears to be stained, which is above the head gasket, so I wonder whether there is something leaking above that point. I can see a core plug clearly to the right of the bolt and there appear to be more above that point by the plugs. Is it possible a core plug is leaking?

Ian
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 29, February, 2016, 04:19:45 PM
Everything that isn't alloy or painted in that location is showing rust marking. I think this due to water splash and constant heating and cooling. It is probably an area that seldom gets cleaned or even wiped.
The way really would be to pressurise the system and check for leaks, although I have seen a lot worse without there actually being a leak found. I would give the area a good clean and see how it goes with periodic checks.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 29, February, 2016, 05:13:51 PM
Looks like I might have to investigate a bit more.

There is limited space for the camera so might have to take the starter motor out to look behind there. Looks though it is getting worse for wear now anyway judging by the nut and thread.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: damouk on 29, February, 2016, 05:44:12 PM
From my experience, any water leak no matter how small will cause a problem in some form or another, if you have a normal rad cap then in theory the cooling of the system will draw water from your expansion bottle back into the system keeping it full (as long as you have a good seal between the expansion bottle to the rad cap spout.

If there is a leak there it could be steam escaping and causing the surrounding area to rust, but it could also draw air in there too, depending on how your system works and is plumbed this might result in a build up of air at some high point and cause an air lock, this could at some point move to the pump and give you some cavitation, a change in revs might push the air back to where it was sitting or move through system and out to the header tank.

This is my theory of what was happening on the V-storm, I was loosing water from a small crack in my header tank (amongst other small hose clamp leaks). Initially I didn't see as a problem as I kept topping it up, but what was also happening over time was that the running temperature would vary more and more when I gave it the beans, I found that I could 'burp' out the air and the temperature swing would almost disappear again. A couple of my cooling system mods are to bleed off any air that could get trapped at high points.

I'm not saying you have the same problem but it might be worth thinking about, have you checked the car for air locks recently?
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Iancider on 29, February, 2016, 10:11:02 PM
I think Sanzomat has hit on the issue.  The external leak might be tiny and an indicator of something worse inside.  If the combustion pressure does get into the cooling system you can end up with what seems like an explosive boil-over especially when you cane it.  The pressure will fill the pressure vessel and empty the head but it will all potentially flow back again just before you open the bonnet (cunning).  When this happens you are also likely to have leakage between cylinders and a compression test will show that.

Also now I know you have an Ali head I strongly advise waterless coolant because electrolytic action between the mixed metal eats the aluminium.  No water means no corrosion.  Also the waterless coolant will run at the temperature of the thermostat unless you have insufficient cooling and that does not seem to be you issue.

Regards
Ian
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 01, March, 2016, 08:34:55 AM
Thanks for all your input guys. ;) Really appreciate it

Had a look last night around the core plug and it doesn't seem to be there. It is defiantly the head to block joint. Checked the torque setting on the wrench after taking a maths course and nipped the head down a little more and I did get a little turn on a few bolts.

Each time after I do a run or get the car up to temp I have recently been squeezing the top hose to see it I can hear air going into the header tank and there never seems to be any.

So, just ordered a compression tester as it seems to be the first area of attack.


Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 01, March, 2016, 10:09:13 AM
The compression tester will test for cylinder compression and will identify a cylinder to waterway/oilway leak as well as cyl to cyl and valve leak. It won't identfy a waterway to atmosphere leak. A cooling system pressure tester will. They may be quite expensive so you could maybe borrow one or a radiator firm may test it for you.

Not seen it for years now, but Shell made a grease that changed colour when in contact with water.
The nearest I have found is Kolor Kut. It is a brown paste that turns red when in contact with water. A smear along the gasket joint will tell you of a leak.

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/131725191103?_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2648&ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Iancider on 01, March, 2016, 07:58:03 PM
Or cheaper....
Quotehttp://www.amazon.co.uk/Water-Finding-Detects-harmful-Heating/dp/B00NU6C036
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 04, March, 2016, 01:49:50 PM
Compression Tests in psi

Ist run          135           117           140           150

2nd run         135          120            135           140

3rd run       no test        125         no test       no test

The tests were done with all four plugs out and engine cold
The 2nd port, 117, 120 and 125 I did three times as it was low to start of with but got better.

Could I ask the experts here what it means as it doesn't mean much to me except that it is not complete rubbish :-X

Thanks
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 04, March, 2016, 03:16:02 PM
On the face of it I would say they were pretty bad. However, it depends on how you took the readings.
Engine hot or cold? Throttle wide open or closed? Engine cranked to max reading on each?

You could take a cold reading on each cylinder, thottle wide open till maximum reading on the gauge is reached.
Do the same but on a warm engine. You will probably find a difference.
I would expect readings to be upto 175 psi and within 10% of each other.

Your readings are a bit low and my first thought would be head off, not necessarily for a head gasket but a full decoke.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 04, March, 2016, 03:26:29 PM
Quote from: benchmark51 on 04, March, 2016, 03:16:02 PM
On the face of it I would say they were pretty bad. However, it depends on how you took the readings.
Engine hot or cold? Throttle wide open or closed? Engine cranked to max reading on each?

You could take a cold reading on each cylinder, thottle wide open till maximum reading on the gauge is reached.
Do the same but on a warm engine. You will probably find a difference.
I would expect readings to be upto 175 psi and within 10% of each other.

Your readings are a bit low and my first thought would be head off, not necessarily for a head gasket but a full decoke.

OK I will try it warm with the throttle wide open which I didn't before... if I can find one of the family who can reach the pedal ???

One point to note is that the engine had a full re-con 3K miles ago albeit 20 years ago. So re-bore, new pistons, rings, valves guides and seats.Crank, cam etc etc.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Vindicator on 04, March, 2016, 03:38:53 PM
Hi Gary, does the cylinder with the lower reading correspond to the possible leak you have in the head? A squirt of oil in the bore will help rule out worn/broken rings.

Ian
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 04, March, 2016, 04:07:46 PM
Quote from: Vindicator on 04, March, 2016, 03:38:53 PM
Hi Gary, does the cylinder with the lower reading correspond to the possible leak you have in the head? A squirt of oil in the bore will help rule out worn/broken rings.

Ian

Thanks Ian, Look at the pics below taken from the top after clean up. The first pic is the two left readings and the second the two right readings. So the low reading is the top pic right plug. So its there a bouts.

(http://s11.postimg.org/i8e3j8zgf/20160229_184631.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/i8e3j8zgf/)
(http://s7.postimg.org/qa8hnf85j/20160229_184529.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/qa8hnf85j/)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 04, March, 2016, 04:24:32 PM
Quote from: Gary RH7 on 04, March, 2016, 03:26:29 PM
Quote from: benchmark51 on 04, March, 2016, 03:16:02 PM

One point to note is that the engine had a full re-con 3K miles ago albeit 20 years ago. So re-bore, new pistons, rings, valves guides and seats.Crank, cam etc etc.

I doubt it will need a decoke then :D

You could jam the throttle open at the carb linkage easily.
Be interesting to know the new readings and hopefully they will be ok. Taking the head off of dolly's can be a pain. See below

https://dollywiki.co.uk/wiki/Dolomite_1850_Cylinder_head_removal

Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 04, March, 2016, 04:51:13 PM
Yea Dave I have a link to that page and I have read it. If I have to do it I just hope the studs are still clean.
Just did it cold again with the carbs wide open. 140   140   140   150  ...now the battery is flat :'(
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 04, March, 2016, 06:02:22 PM
Thats more like it ;). When you've charged up, do another test at normal warm. Should be higher readings, but if only a bit thats ok and if they are fairly close all the better.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 05, March, 2016, 05:17:16 PM
Did another run at normal running temp. Got 155   155   160   160.

Also put the water detect paste on the bad area. Nothing showing after blatting down to the garage and back doing 80 in third. Suppose I have to wait till summer now..if we have one ::)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: benchmark51 on 05, March, 2016, 06:25:06 PM
I think you are pretty well ok with the compressions, nicely close too. As you say the summer will be the test for it.
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: sanzomat on 05, March, 2016, 08:03:50 PM
Why wait for summer -  might still be room on Moleman's track day in April?

Those compressions look fine and as they are all very close I don't think there is any sign of HGF there.

It might be that nipping up your head bolts has solved the leak (if indeed there ever was one)

So is it looking like the overheating is solved now then?
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Gary RH7 on 05, March, 2016, 10:00:54 PM
Quote from: sanzomat on 05, March, 2016, 08:03:50 PM
Why wait for summer -  might still be room on Moleman's track day in April?

Those compressions look fine and as they are all very close I don't think there is any sign of HGF there.

It might be that nipping up your head bolts has solved the leak (if indeed there ever was one)

So is it looking like the overheating is solved now then?

Thanks for the feedback Dave and Dave.
Not sure about a track day yet :o Don't want to show myself up :'(

Also not sure about the overheating but I have put a probe in the thermostat housing so I can see the temperature there. Its very close to the sender.


(http://s30.postimg.org/c1qvlrx3h/20160305_165559.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/c1qvlrx3h/)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 05, March, 2016, 10:16:04 PM
A track day would be a good test of the heating issue Gary and don't worry mate you would not show yourself up, most of us are not that quick! It's more about the fun to be had I think (despite all the ribbing that goes on about the VFC guys etc etc!), even going relatively slow it is a real adrenaline rush mate honest!

I'm starting to get worried myself that I will be too unwell to make it now  :( Somehow I have to get myself sorted before the Combe day next month or I'll be watching from the sidelines. Bummer that'll be - I will never hear the end of it from Moleman!!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: damouk on 05, March, 2016, 10:18:45 PM
Quote from: Facial Hair Optional on 05, March, 2016, 10:16:04 PM
A track day would be a good test of the heating issue Gary and don't worry mate you would not show yourself up, most of us are not that quick! It's more about the fun to be had I think (despite all the ribbing that goes on about the VFC guys etc etc!), even going relatively slow it is a real adrenaline rush mate honest!

I'm starting to get worried myself that I will be too unwell to make it now  :( Somehow I have to get myself sorted before the Combe day next month or I'll be watching from the sidelines. Bummer that'll be - I will never hear the end of it from Moleman!!


Don't you worry about that Steven if your not well enough I'll take the asbo round for you
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Facial Hair Optional on 06, March, 2016, 12:09:10 AM
There's a right load of jokers on tonight!! Haven't you got homes to go to!!!

I haven't been called Steven since the last time my mum told me off. Which actually was today funny enough!  ::)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: Moleman on 06, March, 2016, 09:15:49 PM
Hope you will be ok for the track day mate.

Gary I think Steve is right, the track day is a great way to test it.  :)
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: damouk on 07, March, 2016, 11:06:16 AM
Quote from: Facial Hair Optional on 06, March, 2016, 12:09:10 AM
I haven't been called Steven since the last time my mum told me off. Which actually was today funny enough!  ::)

That was actually my phone trying to be clever with its autocorrect, obviously it's got a better sense of humor than I have!
Title: Re: My Robin Hood Heating Problems
Post by: damouk on 07, March, 2016, 11:07:58 AM
I was always sceptical about my cooling fixes, but was pleasantly reasured when I took it to combe.