318is running temperature prob

[328ibarneysport]

i recently purchased first E30, a 1990 318is. the engine was overheating, more so in traffic than when on the move. it would not blow hot air.the thermostat was opening. i thought it was the head gasket. i was advised to get a new viscous van. i put in a new fan and also a reconditioned radiator. now the engine heats up to just about a quarter of the way up on the dial and does not reach half way where it should rest.
I am just wondering why is this, and is it safe to run the engine at this low temperature.

Also what would be the best springs to put in the car for a 40 - 60mm drop.

cheers

[SPADGE]

No hot air from the heater would normally indicate an air lock in the cooling system or a blockage.
I have a near new set of 40/60 springs for an iS for sale

[328ibarneysport]

ya i sorted the air lock, still running cold.....
how much you looking for the springs, what make, how much milage they done. would you post to ireland?

[SPADGE]

ya i sorted the air lock, still running cold.....
how much you looking for the springs, what make, how much milage they done. would you post to ireland?

Springs are G Max
Only did 200 miles max on the car before i removed them and sold the shell with standards replaced.
Would be looking for £50 + post

[328ibarneysport]

not a fan of the g-max springs, past e36 experiences. cheers anyway

[Brianmoooore]

Quarter on the temp gauge scale is NOT running cold. The scale of the temperature gauge is not linear, and the whole centre section from below the quarter mark to above the three quarter mark only covers a few degrees.
You are chasing a non existent fault!
As long as it's clear of the blue and red sections, it is fine, although most E30s run with the needle from the quarter mark to just over the middle mark.

[SPADGE]

not a fan of the g-max springs, past e36 experiences. cheers anyway

No worries