hot helppp

[simbo]

hello, have a problem with over heating!!! bottom hose on the radiator is cold while top hose is hot? radiator does not seem to be that hot either,any ideas why this might be? also red light flashing on temperture gauge flashes when started could this all be linked,

thanx

[richandhazel]

Sounds like your thermostat isn't opening.
When you start the car from cold, the thermostat is shut so as to not allow coolant to circulate through the radiator. This helps to get the coolant to operating temp as quickly as possible. Once you reach operating temp, thermostat should open to allow flow through the radiator and provide cooling........this doesn't appear to be happening in your case.
Thermostats are inexpensive and replacement and testing is covered in the Haynes manual.

If you haven't got a Haynes.....let me know, I'll post some info for you.

[VWnut]

Sounds about right. To test it put some cold water in a saucepan with the thermostat then boil it then cool it back down. The thermostat should open and close......

[simbo]

thanks i'll try that