[Engine] Radiator/Overheating issues - Mk2 Berlingo Van 1.9D

[B€@R]

Hi everyone,

It's been a while since my last post here, hope everyone is keeping well! I have an early 2003 Mk2 Berlingo van 1.9D (non-turbo) and I've been having some radiator/overheating issues lately. At first, It appeared to be just a pinhole leak, so I went down the Radweld route. Unfortunately, this only worked for a while. Recently, I've noticed that whenever I'm driving in heavy, slow traffic the temp gauge can reach over 100 (hasn't hit the red - yet!) and then it's not long before the radiator warning light and the "STOP" light come on. Whenever, I'm driving on open roads soon after, the temp comes back down to normal. Also, I've noticed that sometimes the radiator can leak a small amount of fluid even after a short journey on open roads. I'm also having to top up the coolant after any overheating instances. Haven't tried flushing the system yet, have limited workshop space/equipment at the moment. Has anyone ever encountered anything like this before?

Regards,
[email=B€@R]B€@R[/email].

[bikergraham]

Hi Bear . The Radweld can actually block some of the waterways so its not a good idea to use such products . If you intend to change the rad don't forget that you will need a new bottom hose as well, as they have a funny little clip thingy as opposed to a worm clip , with a rubber seal , I changed mine about a year ago so it was reasonably easy and not beyond the scope of a diy er as I am . Don't forget to renew the antifreeze at 50% . Do also check that the fan thermostat works , if you short the contacts together it should bring the cooling fan on , you havnt mentioned that in your post so it bothered me a little when the rad light came on , you should be hearing the cooling fan running .

[bikergraham]

Hi Bear . The Radweld can actually block some of the waterways so its not a good idea to use such products . If you intend to change the rad don't forget that you will need a new bottom hose as well, as they have a funny little clip thingy as opposed to a worm clip , with a rubber seal , I changed mine about a year ago so it was reasonably easy and not beyond the scope of a diy er  as I am . Don't forget to renew the antifreeze at 50% .  Do also check that the fan thermostat works , if you short the contacts together it should bring the cooling fan on , you havnt mentioned that in your post so it bothered me a little when the rad light came on , you should be hearing the cooling fan running .

I don't know where you live but I have a brand new radiator id be happy to give you free if you would like it and it helps you . It has a very small bend in its centre but this wont effect its use .

[B€@R]

Hi Bear . The Radweld can actually block some of the waterways so its not a good idea to use such products . If you intend to change the rad don't forget that you will need a new bottom hose as well, as they have a funny little clip thingy as opposed to a worm clip , with a rubber seal , I changed mine about a year ago so it was reasonably easy and not beyond the scope of a diy er  as I am . Don't forget to renew the antifreeze at 50% .  Do also check that the fan thermostat works , if you short the contacts together it should bring the cooling fan on , you havnt mentioned that in your post so it bothered me a little when the rad light came on , you should be hearing the cooling fan running .

Thanks bikergraham!