Thermostat replacement - how fiddly?

[bsdnazz]

I'm pretty sure the thermostat on my S reg serpentine 400 Chim is stuck open. The car runs fine but cold at an indicated 55degC.

Looking at page 132 of the bible #2 it's just a couple of bolts and a gasket. However looking at my car
the bolts do seem to be hidden behind the distributor and the alternator.

Is it possible to change the thermostat without removing the distributor and and alternator?

[philmccann]

Just bumping this to the top. Intending to do mine shortly as well.

Rgds

Phil

[spend]

Get a 1/4" drive 13mm socket, on extension. Still a bit fiddly but no problem.

[bsdnazz]

<homer>Hmmmm. Socket set!</homer>

Thnaks. I might even treat myself to a torque wrench.

[TVR SUPPLIES]

bsdnazz said:

I'm pretty sure the thermostat on my S reg serpentine 400 Chim is stuck open. The car runs fine but cold at an indicated 55degC.

Looking at page 132 of the bible #2 it's just a couple of bolts and a gasket. However looking at my car
the bolts do seem to be hidden behind the distributor and the alternator.

Is it possible to change the thermostat without removing the distributor and and alternator?

When you change,it's worth fitting a 74oC replacement imho,unless you have a particular reason for needing the higher temp 82oC type.

[bsdnazz]

TVR SUPPLIES said:

When you change,it's worth fitting a 74oC replacement imho,unless you have a particular reason for needing the higher temp 82oC type.

Ordered on ebay...

[That Daddy]

TVR SUPPLIES said:

bsdnazz said:

I'm pretty sure the thermostat on my S reg serpentine 400 Chim is stuck open. The car runs fine but cold at an indicated 55degC.

Looking at page 132 of the bible #2 it's just a couple of bolts and a gasket. However looking at my car
the bolts do seem to be hidden behind the distributor and the alternator.

Is it possible to change the thermostat without removing the distributor and and alternator?

When you change,it's worth fitting a 74oC replacement imho,unless you have a particular reason for needing the higher temp 82oC type.

Yes i can highly recommend the 74c stat along with the cooler Otter switch(fair weather user)i have all the Wahler stuff(genuine kit)fitted,probably gives you an 80c engine temp overhaul when on the move

Edited by That Daddy on Tuesday 22 April 19:40

[sparkesp]

Ok Ok, I can hear you - daft question....

Whats the problem with a Chim that runs at 55 - 60 deg? Mine does.

[bsdnazz]

sparkesp said:

Ok Ok, I can hear you - daft question....

Whats the problem with a Chim that runs at 55 - 60 deg? Mine does.

When I was buying my Chim over 5 years ago the chap at Fernhursts said that until the engine had warmed up to about 70deg it should not be revved to high. He said to keep it under 2,500.

I've always followed this advice and have assumed it based on a hotter engine expanding and being less tight. Less friction and more space for the oil to flow in.

Today, being warm(ish) the Chim did get up to 70deg.

[WOO5IE]

The reading you are quoting may not necessary be the engine temperature .It is the sender reading which is not necessary correct as the sender sits in an ' air flow'. See previous threads as there is another sender available. The gauge reading is a guide for 'normal' for your car.

Hope this helps

Trev