Thermostat issues?

[steveu812]

'86 NA
The issue is that the car runs warm - upper end of the center field - see this post if you're interested

I yanked my radiator and flushed it back and forth several times. Nothing ugly came out and a visual inspection of the core showed no corrosion or buildup. Even the first time I ran water through it, it flowed very well. So I'm pretty sure the radiator isn't the issue.

I took a look at Clarks site and it says to check the t-stat for my symptoms. I figure checking it while I have my rad. out would be best - even though it's brand new.

Now here's the question:

The old WP was and updated version, and had the nub for the turbo outlet, but it wasn't drilled for it.

When installing the new t-stat in the new WP with the new rubber gasket, I found the snap-ring (had to use the old one) wouldn't seat. The newer gasket seemed to be too thick. Since the one from the old WP was still thinner, intact and flexible - I used it instead of the new one.

Now I read that there is a difference in the snap ring groove height between the NA and Turbo WP.

Is it possible that having used the thinner gasket, my t-stat doesn't open all the way?

[John_AZ]

"Now I read that there is a difference in the snap ring groove height between the NA and Turbo WP."

I think you mean width. There are 2 sizes of T-stat gaskets- 4.5mm and 2.5mm thick that fit around the T-stat. The width of the gasket is determined by the width of the snap ring groove in the WP. Some are larger than others. NAPA has both sizes.

"Is it possible that having used the thinner gasket, my t-stat doesn't open all the way?"

No.

Did you put it together in the correct sequence and use a WP shim? The blue item is the shim. The seal to the right of the T-stat is inside the WP and usually not changed.



I run a cooler thermofan switch and cooler T stat.
how does this even happen (endless overheating)

GL
John_AZ
1988 924S + 1987 924S

[steveu812]

"Did you put it together in the correct sequence and use a WP shim?"
Yes.

"The seal to the right of the T-stat is inside the WP and usually not changed."
This seal was new on my new pump.

As much of a PITA as it is to get the snap-ring out, I think I'll yank it and verify that it's opening...and closing. I've had few that were DOA on other applications.

As far as going with a different t-stat and switch. I want to verify that the coolant is actually being diverted to the radiator first.

Thanks.

[steveu812]

OK, I simultaneously tested the new t-stat, a Laso 80c (+-2c) that came with the pump and the one off the old pump a Wahler 83c.

My test thermometer is in F... 80c = 176F and 83c = 181F

Approx. opening in mm
Temp -- Laso vs. Wahler
175 -- 0 vs. .5
180 -- .5 vs. 2.5
185 -- 1 vs. 4
190 -- 1.5 vs. 5.5
195 -- 3.5 vs. 6.5
200 -- 4.5 vs. 7.5
205 -- 6 vs. 7.5
210 -- 6 vs. 7.5

At this point I think I'll put the old Wahler back in - it's clean, made of brass in 10/04 and crafted in Germany.

[fbgh2o]

I have had a ton of issues on my turbo with bad t-stats. Had one which would not open at all until 95C and it was supposed to be a 80C t-stat. Sounds like you found part of the issue.