QUESTION.
I have recently imported a 1989 Lotus Excel SE into Melbourne, Australia and I am concerned about the engine over-heating during hot summer temperatures.
I have been told on a forum I should change the radiator cooling fan switch for one to suit a hotter climate, is this correct?
P.H. - Melbourne, Australia
ANSWER.
There are two radiator fan switches available which are as follows -
1) Radiator fan thermal switch (92/82) green coloured coded - Lotus part number A079M6200F
This switch is intended for cooler climates and turns the radiator fans on at 92 degrees Centigrade and turns them off at 82 degrees Centigrade.
2) Radiator fan thermal switch (82/72) blue coloured coded - Lotus part number A079M6136F
This switch is intended for hotter climates and turns the radiator fans on at 82 degrees Centigrade and turns them off at 72 degrees Centigrade.
BEFORE changing the switch, be sure to check the temperature where the fans turn on and off at.
Then check the accuracy of the temperature gauge in the dashboard as they are not as acurrate as you might expect.
Also check the condition of the cooling system, including type of coolant you are using, condition of radiator, condition of both caps on the header tank and if both fans are being driven in the right direction.
In addition to this, a lower operating temperature thermostat should be installed along with Redline Water Wetter
If you are experiencing over-heating problems whilst the vehicle is moving, then carry out a water pump efficiency test.
Copyright © 2012 Lotus Marques
I have recently imported a 1989 Lotus Excel SE into Melbourne, Australia and I am concerned about the engine over-heating during hot summer temperatures.
I have been told on a forum I should change the radiator cooling fan switch for one to suit a hotter climate, is this correct?
P.H. - Melbourne, Australia
ANSWER.
There are two radiator fan switches available which are as follows -
1) Radiator fan thermal switch (92/82) green coloured coded - Lotus part number A079M6200F
This switch is intended for cooler climates and turns the radiator fans on at 92 degrees Centigrade and turns them off at 82 degrees Centigrade.
2) Radiator fan thermal switch (82/72) blue coloured coded - Lotus part number A079M6136F
This switch is intended for hotter climates and turns the radiator fans on at 82 degrees Centigrade and turns them off at 72 degrees Centigrade.
BEFORE changing the switch, be sure to check the temperature where the fans turn on and off at.
Then check the accuracy of the temperature gauge in the dashboard as they are not as acurrate as you might expect.
Also check the condition of the cooling system, including type of coolant you are using, condition of radiator, condition of both caps on the header tank and if both fans are being driven in the right direction.
In addition to this, a lower operating temperature thermostat should be installed along with Redline Water Wetter
If you are experiencing over-heating problems whilst the vehicle is moving, then carry out a water pump efficiency test.
Copyright © 2012 Lotus Marques
