On my 87 crx there seems to be an overheating problem. I flushed the system, and there is water flow in both radiator hoses and the radiator looks fine. What else should I be checking?

 

Thermostat and make sure your ignition timing is not whacked out (although I'd think that if the timing was that far off to generate extra heat, the computer would be pissed off and making the car run really badly).

Are you going to Nationals? Stop by the Koni trailer to get an adjuster **** (forgot to send one).

 

We had a similar problem with ours in the early days. Changing the thermostat helped alot, but it still ran hotter than we liked on summer days. A front mounted oil cooler made the problem disapear.

 

Looks like I'll change out the thermostat. Thanks guys.

Lee, I'm not going to nationals this year. I spent my "Nationals" fund on the CRX Just drop the adjuster in the mail when you have a chance. No rush.

 

a weak radiator cap will not maintain the right pressure and cause overheating i believe. could be worth replacing with a new one anyway.

 

Head gasket? Time for a leakdown.
Also replace the rad cap, and ECT switch (if applicable), and check the fuse that controls it. The fan might not be coming on.

See you at Infineon

 

I'm hoping it's not the head gasket (no oil in the water, no water in the oil) but I should to a leakdown test.

I do know the fan works but it just isn't enough in the long run.

See ya this weekend John.

 

You will probably want to replace or recore the radiator. Over time, the tubes in the radiator will clog and the cooling efficiency will degrade. If replacing, put a two core unit in to give some extra capacity.

 

I have your suggestion of the dual core rad as a last resort on account of it being the most expensive solution. I'll change out the thermostat and test things out this weekend at Infinion. If there still is a overheating problem then I'll go pick up a dual core rad.

 

or you could just take the thermostat out if you don't have cavitation problems.

bad thermostat cost me a head