General radiator, head gasket temp. sensor or what?

[dubdub]

My 1996 1.9 turbo diesel was overheating when going at 60 or over...turning on internal fan dissipated heat and guage went down...however, fan (top fan) stayed on for over 15 minutes when engine turned on and ignition off..bottom fan also came on a few times and would not turn off unless I turned ignition on and had internal fan heater on for a few minutes. Anyway took to garage they said radiator problem ..leaking water (I had not noticed any drop in water levels) recon radiator fitted then garage tells me possible head gasket blown and needs replacing...they also said that it might need skimming and will not know until it is off... Have they got it right and how much should all this cost me...asked at garage and no answer forthcoming... I told them not to bother with head gasket at this stage as I had to ask my Dad (don't have a dad to ask) can anyone tell me whats going on?

 

[carnut]

My 1996 1.9 turbo diesel was overheating when going at 60 or over...turning on internal fan dissipated heat and guage went down...however, fan (top fan) stayed on for over 15 minutes when engine turned on and ignition off..bottom fan also came on a few times and would not turn off unless I turned ignition on and had internal fan heater on for a few minutes. Anyway took to garage they said radiator problem ..leaking water (I had not noticed any drop in water levels) recon radiator fitted then garage tells me possible head gasket blown and needs replacing...they also said that it might need skimming and will not know until it is off... Have they got it right and how much should all this cost me...asked at garage and no answer forthcoming... I told them not to bother with head gasket at this stage as I had to ask my Dad (don't have a dad to ask) can anyone tell me whats going on?

has the garage checked the thermostate or the thermostat housing these control the temperature open the oil cover and smell it if it smellslike petrol or has thick orange goo inside then its the headgasket also check the water pump as this controls the water flow on the water system if its gone you lose water and your engine over heats ok any problems mail me back as i am a qualified mechanic

 

[mikey72]

Hi,
common problem I'm told.
Mine does the same, it's had a new thermostat, which made no difference.
Fine until I put my foot down, then the temp gauge moves up with engine speed.
I have wired both fans to a relay, so I can turn them on manually, but I believe it needs a new radiator from reading other forums.
It's the original radiator from '97 on mine, the fins are coming away from the matrix, if I touch them they're barely attached. It's worth changing the fan switches if you change the radiator, as they pack up as well I'm told.
I haven't got round to changing the radiator yet, It's a camper and I've been away in it at the weekends, but now winters here I will find time to do it.
Mine has the smaller rad, with is actually dearer, it'll cost about £110 supply only.
Let us now how you get on!
Mike