Hey guys I'm Tom and new to all this and so I do appologise if this has come up before but if any of you can help me it will be much appreciated.
I have a 2001 mk2 fiat punto had it for a few months now but now i have a few problems. 1. my fan spins super fast and screams out loud. 2. When I start the car for the first time of a day it seems to keep stalling even when I'm revving it like mad and seems like theres no power but after about 5 mins it's fine. 3. Every now and then my car overheating light comes on, I no I should stop but after 5 mins or so it goes back to normal. I don't know if these problems are all linked or not but will be so greatfull if any off you can help me. Thanks
Tom

The screamign fan could need some lubricating. I had one, ignored it and they it burnt out costing 100 quid for a new one. I suppose if the fan isnt working properly this could cause overheating too

Tony

I sprayed some wd40 on the actual fan and it was fine for about half an hour, but I only actually sprayed it on the fan, where would recommend I actually spray? Thanks

couldn't tell you mate I didn't do it cos i'm silly. The regulars on here will ask about your coolant levels and when the last service was done etc so might be worth checking those too

Mate I'm with you on the silly part lol because I have no idea when it comes to engines lol. I can modify the visual aspects but engines and stuff isn't my department lol. Water levels and oil levels are spot on and there is no sign of any leaks :s

The fan bearings (in the middle of the motor) will be making the noise unless its hitting something.

The rough running could be an air leak making the engine run with too much air. Look for split hoses that feed into the inlet manifold and anything loose in that side of the engine.

The overheating light is always suspicious. Bleed the coolant from both bleed screws to remove any air bubbles VERY IMPORTANT see the guide on how to. Top up to max and check the level before every drive. Unless you are in the AA etc avoid long drives as it might be the head gasket though that is by no means for sure.

Just checked the water level and it's kaked in oil!! Take it I should just scrap it as it is the head gasket?! Lol

It could be from a previous HG failure.

Changing the HG yourself isn't a difficult DIY job on the 8v cars. I'd be inclined to find a better fan, too (scrappy).

Also upon startup the engine is smoking alot it then clears unless you rev the engine then it gets worse again. I have also noticed that black soot is left under the exhaust ok the driveway.

Oil in the coolant sounds very much like the head gasket. Dont drive it any more until its investigated as you will damage the catalyst.

Head gaskets on these cars are easy to do = low cost at a garage or ok for a reasonable amateur to do.

When fixed it will also need an oil and filter change.