Overheating...and then some

[Brinkley]

Warning: Complete e30 newb
Hey all, I've got an 85 318i that im looking to turbo in the future. Right now though it has an overheating problem sitting in traffic that I think is the fault of the fan clutch not spinning very fast at all.
Now-- I've considered going to the 325 radiator since im going to be going turbo or even doing a swap at some point but id like it to stop overheating for now. Should i:
Just get the 325 radiator w/ elec fan
Put elec fan on 318 rad
Replace clutch fan

thx all appreciate any help

[Jean]

None of the above.

Before you start buying parts, flush/refill coolant. Check the clutch fan with newspaper. Thermostat should be your next cheap fix if flushing and clutch fan didn't fix it.

[Brinkley]

hey i appreciate the feedback. ill give that a shot. Been busy making repairs to my e46. Guess it is jealous that i have a new bmw :)

[Brinkley]

let the car warmup in the driveway today it was definitely low on coolant put a fair amount in and noticed that fully warm and at idle clutch fan wasnt spinning at all.

[AppState325]

MRs never overheat......should have kept the 2

[Brinkley]

hahahahah I KNOW thats not true!! have it on video!!!

[Hick]

i wouldnt swap to a larger radiator unless you need to. FI needs to be at the right temp to work properly, too cold could caue issues.

if it is the fan clutch. swap to an electric set up, its cheaper. find an old mk2 vw in a yard and yank the switch for the electric fan and wire it into the system as the ground. works like a charm

[Brinkley]

Thx!! to both of you guys! You've been a great help

[Julien]

omgz hi2u, replace the fan.


<3
Ju

[Borat]

i wouldnt swap to a larger radiator unless you need to. FI needs to be at the right temp to work properly, too cold could caue issues.

would the thermostat not keep the engine at the proper temp?

[Brinkley]

clutch fan replaced idles fine. :) dont even have to turn on da heat