Great site,
I am new to the Townace scene having being sold on the amazing character of the vehicle. I picked up a Townie from a garage that had it traded in, it was sold with a 'blown head gasket' as seen. The radiator was leaking, and I just fitted a new one. Taking the van around the block it overheated. From what I have read I am expecting a blown head gasket or worse, perhaps someone with more experiance could advise. It seems funny that it runs so well before overheating, clean looking exhaust etc. The water level appears to drop as the engine heats up, but also the expansion tube spits and splashes some water. No water loss is vissible except these minor splashes.

- (#11381) Jason Marsh, 8 Jun 04 12:51

yes that sounds familiar. Other tell tale signs are coolant in the oil (sludge inside cap, droplets on the dipstick) and oil in the coolant (discoloured brown/black). Think you will have to address the head gasket and while stripped you may as well change the belts etc.

- (#11381) Ian Dunse (Derbs), 9 Jun 04 01:48

Hello Jason.
This could be a pressure problem, try replaceing the radiator cap first. If that doesn't cure the problem then it could be the head or gasket. If it is make sure you have the head pressure tested and checked for flatness before refitting.
- (#11381) dave Bright (Bournemouth), 9 Jun 04 01:50

Both the water and the oil look good. I was wondering if there was any way of detecting water in the exhaust gas, there is nothing unusual I can see. I will get a radiator cap on order first. Though there is no obviouse leak, the seal does look a bit perished.

Many thanks again.

- (#11381) Jason, 9 Jun 04 14:39