Underheating probs...

[paul-unny]

Hello all im new to this and to 4x4s.
The problem im having is my 1.6 vit does not seem to get up to temp..
I have changed the thermostat but it does seem to be using a very small amount of water, say a pint every two weeks.
the heater only just gets warm..  any ideas would be great.
Cheers.

[deepndirtyvitara]

I havn't had the chance to have a look yet. does your temp gauge only go up to around a quarter? I think it could be a small split in either the rad or hose allowing some air in? I let u know

[paul-unny]

i doesnt even get to 1/4. but thanks for the tip i will have a look today and get back..
Again thanks......... :lol:

[muddyjlx]

mine dosen't get up to the quarter mark either.

never has, i think its a common vit thing.

[deepndirtyvitara]

I've been chatting to a few people, if you cannot find a leak, it could be the beginning of you're head gasket going.  

[Tyred Already]

check that the hoses in and out the heater are hot (80c +).
If they are both hot the heater is at fault(matrix or vents), if they are both cold the thermostat isnt working or there is no water in the hoses. If the in pipe is hot and the out pipe is cool you will be sitting in a toasty vit (OR the flow is insufficient).
Test for water leaks by filling with antifreeze solution and pressure test and look for the colour. My last leak was a porous top hose where the coolant leaked out the cut end of the hose through the reinforcing strands.

[Boggert]

Sounds like it could be the head gasket, check the oil for traces of water and keep a close eye on it.

[paul-unny]

Thanks for all the advice..
I think the head will come off this weekend and a new set of pipes. A full flush new anti -freeze a head ache, sore knuckles, cut fingers,,,,,,, aint it great..
Messing about aside thanks every one i will take a good long look at it this week end and let you know what i find..

Cheers Paul