FL1 thermostat mod

[Ace]

Hey guys, been reading a few threads on the FL1, the cheap prices of the 1.8L petrol models is tempting as we are looking at replacing stacey's pajero with something smaller. Im thinking of buying one and then planning an engine swap whilst I wait for the inevidable engine problems.

Having said that I have read a few threads where Garrycol has mentioned a thermostat mod, im aware that the cooling system design, largely the position of the thermostat, is the cause of all the head issues. What does this mod entail and is there a kit that has been devised, i did a search but couldnt find any other threads.

If i can buy one and do this straight away then i might get a few years of good motoring out of one.

Matt

[Ace]

I found this website, might be helpful, not having seen the layout of the motor in the freelander, i dont know if this type of kit would fit or if something similar would need to be devised.

Cooling system modifications (http://www.mgf.ultimatemg.com/group2/common_problems/hgf_pages/cooling_system_modifications.htm)

[Ace]

If one of these kits was installed you could just remove the original thermostat completely. Yes?

[Ace]

Also found this site:

QED Remote Thermostat Housing | Rover K-Series | QED Motor Sport Ltd | Thermostat, Engine, Standard, (http://qedmotorsport.co.uk/qed-shop/rover-k-series/misc/qed-remote-thermostat-housing)

[woko]

LR sell the updated remote thermostat. Part Number PCH001190. This hose is the top and bottom radiator hose with the thermostat in the middle. The Original thermostat is positioned under the inlet manifold in a coolant pipe. You can replace it with PN PEL000040 but is just a thermostat with the middle missing which you can just cut out of the old one.

[Ace]

LR sell the updated remote thermostat. Part Number PCH001190. This hose is the top and bottom radiator hose with the thermostat in the middle. The Original thermostat is positioned under the inlet manifold in a coolant pipe. You can replace it with PN PEL000040 but is just a thermostat with the middle missing which you can just cut out of the old one.

how much does that part cost?

Have people who have done this mod still experienced the cylinder head failure or does this actually fix the problem?

[Scouse]

Have people who have done this mod still experienced the cylinder head failureFrom what I've seen, yes.

BTW, I assume you mean liner/block failure. The heads are fine.

[Ace]

From what I've seen, yes.

BTW, I assume you mean liner/block failure. The heads are fine.


yeah, thats what i meant scouse.

So in reality the liners are flawed, the thermostat issue just speeds the process up.

What is the cause of the liners slipping then?

If you buy a 1.8L Petrol freelander and pull the motor is there something that can be done to prevent it?

[woko]

If you buy a 1.8L Petrol freelander and pull the motor is there something that can be done to prevent it?
Have been told you can fit the liners with devcon and the don't drop. Haven't tried it but looking how liners sit in block should work

[Ace]

Have been told you can fit the liners with devcon and the don't drop. Haven't tried it but looking how liners sit in block should work

righto, thanks.

[scando]

G'day mate,

Don't know if you are continuing down this path or not but I have looked into this motor in great detail, as it's the one in my Lotus Elise.

There are at least two different versions of an updated thermostat kit been made for these motors. The pick of these is called a "pressure relief thermostat", I believe this is the style that Landrover are issuing. Yes you will need to remove the old stat from its housing. (if it's the same housing as the Elise that's just an open the housing and remove job)

I know of examples which are still quite happy after 150+ thousand km, but others which have failed in much shorter times. The main difference seems to be those who have good longevity have always let the motor warm up properly before giving it the beans.

Modes of failure of the K series motors do vary, at least in the Elise. Most have had heads "walk" because of the plastic dowels (headgasket blows by). Liners dropping is most common in motors which have been rebuilt, and liner highets not checked and adjusted correctly (should stand proud by a specfic amount) Another common issue which the head gasket gets incorrectly blamed for is the inlet manifold gasket leaking, allowing coolant to mix with oil, certainly worth checking if you have those symptoms.

Crankshaft failures get reported as well, but usually only in motors being reved hard with head work (7000 seems to be all people can get away with and remain fairly reliable)

The upshot is that they are a fairly reliable motor if looked after. When and if the dreaded HGF comes along, rebuild with MSL head gasket and steel head studs, taking care to set the liner heights correctly and job's a carrot!

Have fun!