Known V8 Coolant Problem

[AshD]

Hi,

I've a late 98 V8GT, have heard snippets about the engine coolant problem and want to know more. My V8 does use coolant, but at a relatively slow pace. What are the symptoms and future for my v8 if I have this problem - it's done 24k miles.

Thx

[ErnestM]

I think that was a '97 problem only...

ErnestM

[Skerd]

This was talked about a lot on the yahoo site a few months ago. Go there, do a search, and it should tell you a lot. If I remember correctly replacing the piston liners was the (expensive) answer.

[rob.e]

ErnestM said:

I think that was a '97 problem only... ErnestM

Nope. I had the problem on my car (a 1998) and i know of a 99 and a 2000 car that also have had the problem.

[rob.e]

AshD said:

What are the symptoms and future for my v8 if I have this problem - it's done 24k miles.

No really obvious symptoms unfortunately, only the loss of coolant which accelerates over time (mileage). There may be other reasons why you appear to have coolant loss, loose clamps etc. Suggest drain and re-fil the system properly (as per the manual) as sometimes air pockets can cause overheating of the coolant (ie it becomes steam) which causes the expansion tank (in the wheel arch) to overflow.

If it IS the liner problem, then its a case of replacing the liners and using the newer sealant material that lotus has now. My car suffered from this last year at 55k miles. All my costs are in my profile.

cheers
Rob