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BMW E36 Z3 1996 and later (conv, coupe, M Roadster, M Coupe) 1997 328i overheating


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Last Post: Aug 27, 2009 12:03 PM Last Post By: Charlie
fixiturself

Posts: 11
Registered: 01/10/09
1997 328i overheating
Posted: Aug 26, 2009 4:49 PM
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Just wanted to get some opinions on my overheating problem. The car started overheating during the winter when just sitting at an idle and would go back to normal as soon as I strted to move...Wasn't sure at first if it was a correct reading. Found out recently that it was when my radiator hose blew off.

I had my thermostat changed and it still overheats but not as bad. The gauge fluctuates a lot but doesn't just go right to red light like before...sort of floats around between middle and the red area.

My question is what would be the next logical thing to change? The water pump with the upgraded model or the radiator? As far as cost, the radiator I can change myself and the water pump will have to be installed by a mechanic.
And I did add some radiator sealer about a year ago like a dummy...duh...so bad I had to replace the expansion tank because it just clogged it up.. was changed right away, but could've clogged the radiator somewhat.
autobahn

Posts: 515
Registered: 08/17/05
Re: 1997 328i overheating
Posted: Aug 26, 2009 9:47 PM   in response to: fixiturself in response to: fixiturself
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I would check first: fan clutch and fan shroud (perhaps missing).

If OK: flush and bleed the system.
If no improvement: R&R water pump and/or radiator
fixiturself

Posts: 11
Registered: 01/10/09
Re: 1997 328i overheating
Posted: Aug 27, 2009 11:05 AM   in response to: autobahn in response to: autobahn
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thanks for your response....sounds good....just one more question?...when you take of the radiator cap on the expansion tank with the engine running is that small whole where the antifreeze circulates supposed to be pumping antifreeze through all the time?
Charlie

Posts: 4,669
Registered: 12/09/03
Re: 1997 328i overheating
Posted: Aug 27, 2009 12:03 PM   in response to: fixiturself in response to: fixiturself
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Yes, but at idle not much comes through. Raise idle and stream should be strong.

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