Heating engine - Saxperience

fx0 · 25th April 2013, 18:25

Hi,

I have a small problem with my Saxo. Great car by the way. Bought it off a fat liar last fall, so now after winter, its time to work.

The heating system is puzzling me out. When I bought it, the car didn't get high enough temperature, but sometimes the thermostat just need to be changed. This time, however, changing the thermostat (the old was removed pre-sale) made the engine way to hot, and I had to remove it and drive without until i can figure out what's wrong. I think it may be leaking as well, sometimes I find a wet floor infront of the passanger seat in front. I can also hear the pump pumping the cooling liquid, although now this sound has been silent for a while (temp still to low).

Anyone got enough saxperience to give me some clues about what's going on?

Many thanks

fx0 · 25th April 2013, 18:27

I meant cooling system, obviously (by the way, where is the edit button) sorry

Prickle^p · 25th April 2013, 18:32

I dont think you should really drive without one in. Dont quote me though..

Gandi699 · 25th April 2013, 18:37

You can drive without a thermostat in no problem but only for a while or get you home measure. Otherwise it'll take ages to heat up, coolant won't reach temperature properly which will make it run rich and wash the bores over time. Also puts the cooling at the mercy of the water pump and can thermally shock the engine. So best off fitting another one, I prefer an 82 degree stat myself. However it sounds like your matrix is leaking which is introducing air into the system as it can't hold pressure, hence the overheating. Replace or by pass the matrix, rebleed coolant and test with a thermostat fitted obviously

fx0 · 25th April 2013, 18:50

Yeah, I'm starting the work now. I also drive motorcycle so the car is hardly being used at the moment, and drove minimally through the winter. I'm not native to English, nor a car mechanic, can you explain what the Matrix is and what it does, and link a pic?

Thanks

fx0 · 25th April 2013, 19:11

Also, because I think I know what part in the system you're talking about - do I need to remove the dashboard to change this? there are 2 hoses going from the engine room into the car, with metal between them, and under the dashboard, this thing is not being seen.

:s