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MG Midget and Sprite Technical - Test the coolant system

Wanted to pick all you guys and girls thoughts.

I have posted previously about problems with the coolant get into the oil. I have now changed the head gasket several times. The last time I also changed the head with a known good one from my MG midget.

However the coolant getting into the water still keeps happening. This is even just sitting in the garage and not turned over.

What do I need to pressurise the coolant system. I have a compressor so can pressurise I just need some sort of cap, anyone got one or know how can make one?

Oh and then what do I do when I have it? Can I only prove that their is a problem or could I identify where it is?
Shaun

If the problem is not the gasket or the head, then there is a leak inside the crankcase or a cylinder wall. Not good!
You can likely find it with the sump off. No pressure should be needed if it is leaking just parked. If you need pressure, you can just pressurize through the overflow pipe; the normal cap has a free return valve to prevent vacuum on cooling down. No more than 15psi max.

FRM
FR Millmore

Yeah, you must have a crack in the head or block... likely to happen if you've ever run the engine without coolant or its been overheating and then quenched by filling up too soon afterwards.

Easiest and cheapest solution is to start with a new engine from ebay or a breakers - cast iron fusion welding is just too expensive and is only worth it on irreplaceable older engines.



C L Carter

Thanks Guys,

Can I take the sump off without having to remove the engine. My slightly hazy head says you can but I just want to check.

If so I can check that out tomorrow.

Thanks for the rapid response

Shaun
Shaun

Yes.

FRM
FR Millmore

This thread was discussed between 05/05/2012 and 06/05/2012

MG Midget and Sprite Technical index

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