m40-m42 temp gauge problem

[jon552]

hi, i have just completed a 1.8 is convertion on my 316 but i am having a bit of a problem - the engine warms up fine but the temperature gauge will only go up to just over the blue any one come across the same problem with this convertion?
jon

[robbo86]

Yes I have done the exact same thing, however guage really struggles to lift its self above the blue, the highest it has gone has been the quarter mark.

If you find a solution let me know. My car needs to go in for an MOT soon so if I havent sorted it by then I will ask the mechanics to have a look for me!

[daimlerman]

Have you both checked/replaced your thermostats?

[robbo86]

Errrr...... no? Where is the thermostat?

[appletree]

Front of the engine under the housing were the top and bottom hose connect, you need to drain the coolent first and you will need a new thermostat and thermostat housing gasket to. Not a major job though probly less than£25 if you go to GSF:D

[pac1982]

Yes i had this problem fitted a new thermostat and sorted it, really easy job, you can test if your old ones knackered by putting it in a bowl of boiling water if it works you will see it move if it dont move its shafted.

[robbo86]

What damage can a knackered thermostat do?