Hi, I've just bought a C reg model F space cruiser and I'm having a strange problem. It doesn't seem to be overheating when driving, ie - the temp guage is hovering at halfway to just above (not going into the red), and it's driving ok, but when you stop and turn the engine off, smoke/steam (I'm not sure which) starts coming off the engine and there is a strong burning smell. Can anyone give me any idea's as to what it might be? Cheers, James. - (#268) James Lamb, 5 Jun 01

Could be something as simple as a minor oil or water leak hitting something hot. While your driving you woudn't notice the smell because it would be carried away in the air flow. Next time you run the engine, don't stop it until you have a visual on it, preferably with a good torch. Then stop it and see what shows up. There's a big difference between burning and steaming, get a second nose's opinion... - (#273) Kevin Savage, 5 Jun 01

James
Are you losing an appreciable amount of water as result? If so, then could be a blockage in the rad or pipes. Drop the coolant and backflush the rad. If not, then suspect a slight leak that is dropping water onto something hot. Could be a small split in a hose near a clamp.
Ian - (#278) Ian Dunse, 6 Jun 01