Low running temps and cooling fans cutting in early issue...

[Pepsi_x]

Hi guys,

Recently I have noticed that my Chim500 is not reaching its normal running temp of 70 (I've owned the car for 10 years so kinda know how it runs in all weathers). In fact temp struggles to hit 60, and is often sitting around 50-55. This can't be good and its a big change in behaviour from the norm.

Now interestingly, the fans have decided to become self-aware! Starting from cold, the fans are coming on after a couple of minutes when the engine is still cold, then the other day coming on after the first mile, they then stayed on for the next 45 mins. By the time I got to work normally I'd have expected the temp to be around 90 (its all nose to tail traffic) but the temp was only just over 60.

So, what are the obvious things to look for when the fans are cutting in when the engine is cold, and any idea why the car may not be getting up to normal running temps (the fan issue aside as that came shortly after the temp issue).

Cheers
J

[spend]

Make sure all the coolant is still in the car. Change the otter switch, they are particular consumables fitted near the cat.

[Pepsi_x]

Its just been serviced at TVR Power (a week ago), so I would like to think the coolant is all in there lol... will get the otter switch checke dout then.... anything else?

[bigdods]

Pepsi_x said:

Its just been serviced at TVR Power (a week ago), so I would like to think the coolant is all in there lol... will get the otter switch checke dout then.... anything else?

If its had a coolant change its very likely it will have burped out some air and you need to top it up again. Happens to me every time I have the coolant changed. Take the big screw out of the swirl pot and check, coolant should be right to the top. Once this is full check the header tank and fill about half way up. Run engine for a bit with the heater set to max hot, cool down and check again. Repeat until it doesnt drop in the swirl pot.

Make sure you use the right coolant. I had them fill up a 2l coke bottle of neat coolant at the last service so I have plenty if needed.

Otherwise, as has already been said your otter may be knackered, they do suffer from heat soak, mine failed about 2 years ago. They are only about £20 and you can fit in about 30 seconds with nothing but a big spanner and some PTFE.

[blujay10]

I'd give TVR Power a quick call as they have just carried out the service. I'm sure its nothing major, and does sound like the otter switch. As said ealier this is an easy job - I even managed it and I am a total numbnuts when it comes to anything to do with spanners!

[spend]

You can spring a leak anytime, prediction of hoses bursting etc. is not exactly a service item unless they employ Mystic Meg ~ but then again would you want her changing your oil

[tonys]

I had similar symptoms with mine and have just changed the Otter switch, but haven't yet run it up to temperature to finally confirm. Also took the opportunity to wire-in a fan override switch.