Ok, my mini does well for about 30-40 minutes, then it rapidly heats up. I make sure I don't drive it when the heat gauge goes past 4/5, I am to afraid that the engine will seize up.

I have a 4 core radiator, and a pully fan. I am thinking about adding an electric fan to help w/ the airflow. That is one of the bad things about these late model Minis...the radiator being mounted on the side. I also do not have a leaks in the radiator, water pump, or any of the hoses, thanks God.

I think the best thing to do is to flush out the radiator and put some "Wet Water" in it to see if it will help. I'd like to drive my Mini for at least a couple of hours, maybe up to Raleigh and back.

So, if anybody has any ideas or suggestions please pass them along!

 

Ok, so I've flushed out my radiator, and it still gets very hot! I am out of ideas...I guess the old Minis just run hot:(

I guess I will have to go up to Durham to get an electric fan installed. Hopefully that will help out.

 

Ok, I ordered a Kenlowe electric fan. Hopefully I will get it this week and have it installed this weekend. I will try and post pics of it if I can and I will let you know if there is a really difference or if I just wasted $250!

 

Hi Gracie,
My '65 MG Midget tended to do the same thing (similar engines) and I took care of it with a new thermostat. I went with a little lower temp unit. There were other issues specific to Midgets but the main culprit was the thermostat. The electric fan will probably help.

Chris

 

Thanks for the info. I did forget to mention in my previous posts that I did replace the thermostat...and it did help.

I have been talking w/ a mechanic, and they believe it may be caused to the head not being as level as it should be...and they are afraid that I could be blowing a head gasket.

I guess all the symptoms are there for an unleveled head, running hot, low compression, and unpar performance.

Man, what a mess!

 

What kind of driving do you do for 30-40 minutes? High traffic, interstate???

 

I normally just drive around in the city, some freeway though, but only less than 1/4, and when I do drive on the freeway, it is never over 70 mph.