So I think I've sorted my engine related gremlims with a few unexpected fixes.
The issues I had noted included:
- Not getting battery charging voltage levels whilst running
- Achieving quite high coolant temperatures as per the dash gauge
- Not getting any thermo fan operation automatically
- No achieving ongoing engine idle once warmed up
- Barely being able to restart the engine once warmed up
My sparky dropped by this morning and his advice was to recheck the temp sensor screwed into the heater manifold pipe. It sends the dash gauge its signal. He was concerned it might be the wrong sensor.
A multi-meter check confirmed that I had a wiring issue somewhere between the alternator plug and the dash battery light. Was not getting the battery light on at ignition on ie the alternator was not being excited and hence no charge during engine operation.
So reviewed the sensor and its markings seemed right but I practically tested resistance in heated water and bingo the sensor was stuffed. $12 later at Bursons a quick check on the stove and I had a correctly working sensor.
While the sensor was out I topped up the coolant system. Added about 2.5 litres so there was also clearly a large air gap in the system too. The sensor and radiator fill point are probably about the highest points so I got some air purge from the sensor port too. Screwed the sensor in did a final top up and capped the system.
Started to unravel the loom at the alternator plug and found a failed solder join between the original plug wires and the loom connection. A new solder joint and quick test and on comes the battery light. So re-wrapped the short section I'd unravelled.
Started first time, the new 82C thermostat operated properly and the system ran up to just over 90C by the gauge and presto the thermo fired up. Engine continued to idle well all through this sequence so I think it is all fixed.
A lack of charging was probably playing hell with the ECU and hence fuel rates. Now that I think about it there was quite a fuel smell after my previous runs. The dodgy temp sensor was messing with the ECU too no doubt and the air lock would not have helped and was probably why the thermo sensor would not activate.
Will now definitely be able to move onto the next phases.
A good day all round.
Cheers
Slo
349Likes
Gremlins overcome I hope
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