Re: Belgium Rally 25th May 2013 with Jean Luc Packard

Posted by Terry Cantelo On 2013/6/4 11:15:50

Mal, this has been a weird one. Firstly when we got to Dover just before our hotel I slowed down to take a turn into their car park and steam was coming out from under the bonnet. Stopped the car and let the steam die down and checked around. Ross and I saw immediately what we thought was wrong the hub of the water pump had come loose. Retightened it up and refilled with water. Problem solved we thought, but no. Next morning heading for the ferry and just as we were about to check in back came the steam. We had only done about 15 miles and their was no sign of any water in the rad. Fortunately we bought 6 containers of distilled water at a local motor factors (Halfords) Filled up and got on the boat. On arrival at Dunkirk we checked the water again and everything was fine. Got onto the motorway heading for Waterloo and after about 10 miles or so it all started again. Whilst driving there was no significant change in the temperature gauge which would cause concern. This happened for about 15 more times when on the last steam up Ross did his usual release of the rad cap (Very slowly) but did manage to scold his hand a bit and dropped the cap. At this point a volcano erupted out of the rad full of black substance and Lesley said that she thought she had seen a large rubbery substance fly out.
Anyway filled up with water again and got to the hotel with no more problems.

Checked everything the next day and everything was fine. We did most of the weeks tours with only having to top up with water on the stops. At no time did the temp. gauge show any problems as well as no sign of any water in the oil or water coming out of any visible area. The stat had stuck open at some time during all this steaming etc.
The water pump is fine with no looseness in the impeller.
Started back to Dunkirk for the return home and actually did 85 miles without any problems and then just before the docks it started all over again. No sign of water leaks but masses of steam.
Took off the water distribution plate today and not much to report there just a small amount of crud but not enough to cause a blockage.
I will report on anything when we find it.