Overheating/replacing coolant

Julez

Hi,

I'm driving a 1996 Peugeot 306, and after driving, not very long distances, for bout half an hour or so I get an indicator saying that the engine is too hot. The fan then remains on cooling it when I stop the engine running. I'm hoping its just a case of replacing the coolant? Is this likely to be the cause?
If so how do I go about that? Drain the old coolant then replace it with new coolant? Mixed half with water? If so, just tap water or no?

Thanks for any help.

Anan1

First off - is the coolant level ok now? Coolant doesn't stop cooling as it ages, if it's still there then it should work.

RobertM

If the engine overheats, I'd blame the thermostat.

Julez

Well the coolant level certainly isn't anywhere near the max, I cant really tell but it seems close to the min level. How could I tell if its the thermostat? Is replacing it a difficult job?

Row

Is it Petrol/Diesel...??
As said above it could be the thermostat or a faulty temp sensor.
To replace the thermostat you could drop the level of coolent remove
the thermostat (normally held in with to bolts) fit new one topup and bleed the system.

Anan1

Although thermostats usually jam open rather than shut. I'd be suspecting the water pump. I'd top up the coolant for now though, water wil;l be fine for the moment.

Row

Anan1 wrote: »

Although thermostats usually jam open rather than shut. I'd be suspecting the water pump. I'd top up the coolant for now though, water wil;l be fine for the moment.

Indeed it could be the water pump...Maybe check for circulation in the
heather tank when the engine is idle.

Julez

I threw in some water and took it for a spin to see what would happen and when it started to heat up I took a look and the water was dripping out of it, but I couldn't see where from as it was hidden from view. It was dripping out pretty quickly and there was a fair puddle of water after about 5 mins. Any Ideas?

Anan1

Julez wrote: »

I threw in some water and took it for a spin to see what would happen and when it started to heat up I took a look and the water was dripping out of it, but I couldn't see where from as it was hidden from view. It was dripping out pretty quickly and there was a fair puddle of water after about 5 mins. Any Ideas?

Yup, get it fixed ASAP.;)

DublinDilbert

You'll need to find where it's coming from. If it's leaking that quick should be fairly easy to find.

Is it coming from behind the timing belt cover?? If it is I'd guess it's the waterpump...

Divorce Referendum

Also be careful. An overheated engine can warp the head and ruin the head gasket. Try not to drive it till your problem is sorted.