Most problems sorted except .........!

[mwtryan]

Well, after 6 months and a replacement engine that was subsequently rebuilt itself plus numerous T350 "issues" my car is finally getting there, to those who followed my "adaptive mapping issues" thread the problem turned out to be a faulty alternator that was emitting an irregular charge that apparently was upsetting the electronics on the car. Must say motor is champion now and a real stonker!
One of the major problems I am having is cabin heat - out here in SA summer is coming on and the car is becoming almost unbearable to drive in traffic (and generally) due to this issue - has anyone taken any measures to solve this yet! I know that there is some heat retardent material behind the gearbox tunnel firewall but it is not coping with our hot weather - not even close! Use the Aircon I hear you say? - tried this but the Aircon just cannot cope with the heat updraft through the top of the 'box. Gearstick and handbrake lever almost too hot to use, motor is running correct temperature etc. - the way I see it it's a typical TVR design flaw (Wheeler to staff - "never mind the heat lads - let's get the damn cars on sale").
In any event I should'nt imagine this is as big an issue for you UK drivers due to your cooler weather and all but trust me - this is really spoiling my TVR experience and any suggestions would be gratefully recieved.

[tail slide]

Cats always generate much extra heat - which isn't really an issue in UK temps, as you say! The position of these must mean they're the main source of heat through to the cabin. Reducing heat level is likely to be a more thorough answer than trying to dramatically increase heat shielding everywhere, IMO.

Several TVR agents/tuners have removed T350 cats in the quest for improved sound and (theoretically) power, but an ecu re-map will be needed. Could go the whole hog and apply exhaust heat wrap to manifolds etc. Not pretty, but effective!

Guess it depends if emissions testing is an issue in S.A.

Ah - see in your other post you've already de-catted!
Exhaust wrap entire system?!!
>> Edited by tail slide on Saturday 24th September 07:28

>> Edited by tail slide on Saturday 24th September 07:28

[mwtryan]

Thanks Tailslide - thought about wrapping exhausts but don't think it will help too much (wrapped the manifolds on my Chim 500 so do have previous on this)problem with exhaust bandaging is you do get a build up of moisture in the pipes which eventually leads to corrosion from the inside - not sure how T350 exhaust would stand up to this - being S/Steel / Titanium perhaps it mgiht not affect it. I think generally the heat from the engine bay inc. exhausts is the culprit - TVR SA and I looked underneath the car yesterday and their is space to "clad" the top of the 'box with some type of material - we are looking into this to find out what is available / if it's worth while doing - in the meantime I guess my portable sauna is good for the waistline if nothing else!!

[tail slide]

OK. Think exhaust will be the main culprit. In the meantime hope the new 'slimline you' will still fit the seats