Originally Posted by
Robgw
I just been through this and glad I did. (2000 V8)
The Thor V8 is designed to run as hot as possible without overheating, thats where this engine is most efficient (urban myth that it's in connection with law on emissions ..apparently). So Pedro is right they run around 96 not 88. This is fine as long as the system is working well. You will notice on the temp gauge you should be up to running temp in a couple of K's due to the harder spring in the Thermostat.
The dury is out on trying lower temp stats, but i know a few mechanics who advised me not to deviate from the LR spec of for the Bosch Engine Management System. I'll go with their advice personally.
Cooling system failure leads to blow/leaking Head Gaskets and possible slipped liner. Both of these are not a design fault or weakness of the V8 design but effects of overheating a Alu Engine.
So consider :-
- Replace the thermostat
- Check all hoses and replace any which seem over hard or swollen like bike inner tubes when hot.
- Flush cooling system of course
- Check the water pump gasket and seal for leaks
- Test the viscous fan coupling (plenty of threads on this)
- Radiator flush (2 ways)
1) Take it out for a Service,( which i did.) After 13 years the report said it was 1/4 sludged up. So it was rodded out and the side tank flushed.
2) Top and bottom hose off and run water through from the top and the bottom. Wrap the hosepipe in a wet cloth to create the seal. Google "Scotty Kilmer .com" A US mechanic who will show how to do it.
Bit piece of mind once you do it as the cost of overheating can be 10x more!