When I drive my Mk2 (ABF engine) from cold, the temperature gauge barely moves above zero. It should sit about half way when it's up to temperature as I understand. But when I let it sit and tick over, the needle moves to about three quarters. When it gets there, the dual radiator fans kick in. Should I be worried about the gauge not reading correctly when it's driving?
Well it looks like the thermostat isn't working correctly in the first part, but the fans coming on is strange. Afaik the sensor for the fans is in the radiator, which should be relatively cold when idling. I would check the thermostat nevertheless, driving a cold engine is not good at all.
Thanks mate. I'll check the hoses as suggested in that guide. I've already given it a flush and refill after changing the heater matrix. Probably change the thermostat anyway.
Yep I agree with danpy thermostat would be my first thought. Worth getting another stat flange as well as they often warp and won't seal again, if you're using a MK2 rad and hoses a MK2 stat housing would fit best. The mk3 one can be a bit awkward, but if youre already adapted the MK2 hoses to suit the mk3 housing then get a mk3 one (or keep what you have if it's new)
