Matt,
I have had similar problems in the past. It was heavy deposits of rust in the
bottom of the radiator that would not flush out. After recoring it worked just
fine.
D. Brown
1965 TR4 (CT37002L)
1971 Stag (LE1398L)
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From: Matt Barre <mbarre@juno.com>
To: Triumphs@autox.team.net
Subject: Successful trip AL - VA
Date: Monday, September 29, 1997 12:33 PM
Trip complete with no casualties! The only glitch I had was a little
overheating. The car (80 Spit w/ electric fan) idles fine at mid scale
on the temp guage but sustained highway speeds causes it to creep up to
above 3/4 depending on how hard I am running. It was mid 80's in AL
though when I had the most trouble. I stopped a few times along the way
to flush the cooling system - several times, there was a lot of rust. I
also put a new radiator cap on and tried both with & without a thermostat
(certainly don't want to kick that debate off again but I am a member of
the thermodynamic group that does not believe in the too fast flow
theory!)
Once I got into VA I hopped off I-81 and tried the Blue Ridge Parkway -
what a blast! The only problem was I couldn't enjoy the full view as it
was dark much of the time and very foggy. I logged a good bit of time at
20 mph. I must have seen at least 2 dozen deer.
I think I will have the radiator rodded before the Spring.
Thanks again for all that subjected themselves to a potential trouble
call along the route - glad I didn't have to use it... Andy, is VTR
planning to update their assistance book? If not I would think we could
develop an excellent product from this list.
Such a location & phone list could save many from a ruined trip.
Since I had my tools and emergency kit with me I even had the opportunity
to help a few folks along the side of the road. I changed a tire for a
lady with three screaming kids, taped up a split radiator hose for an
older couple (I had a jug of water in the trunk), and felt sorry for a
teen ager whose motor sounded like it had a blacksmith inside hammering
away.
At least I have my car back to be worked on.
Matt Barre
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