[lovethycobra]

results are in (sort of...) - so running the engine with hood fully open or fully closed has no impact on the problem. feeling around the radiator I did find some patches that didn't burn my hand as much as others (ouch). So it looks like it there are 2 problems - 1. engine heating problem "probably" fixable with new aluminium rad (which is being done next week). 2. The "choking and stalling" is either unrelated to the heat problem which suggests it could simply need some tweeking of the carbs or back to the drawing board!! Thank you all for your very valuable input - it has been a very pleasureable first experience on the board and I look forward to continuing in many other discussions!!!