So my 96 Disco is running warm (220) while city driving but runs around 180-185 while on the freeway. I recently filled with a 50/50 coolant-water mix and installed a new thermostat but she still runs warm, especially while idling in city conditions. From what I've heard, chances are I need to replace the cooling fan clutch. Does that sound accurate? If yes, what can I expect to pay for a new clutch?

Thanks,
Randy

 

What did you hear and from who? It helps when in doubt about the age of a part to replace it but not if you don't need it. If you can get a full spin outta a cooled motor's clutch you should replace it. Your temps are about right.....

RovahFarm for all your new Land Rover Parts and Accessories

The GM clutch is listed in the "Tech" section, less expensive.

 

So it is normal for engine temps to run around 220 while city driving?

 

Normal, I do not know. For me, I do not want to see over 200. Before installing the 180 thermostat, I would see as high as 212, but now I have hit 201 only once, turned on the A/C, aux fan turned on and it dropped to 196, and never went over 198. I am also watching other forum members electric fan conversions, so i can decide to either replace clutch with hayden or convert to electric fan.

 

If air temp and humidity is high yep, not unusual. Your temp gauge will look no different at 220 than 180, just below half. The stock stat opening temp is 88C - 190.4F. I believe the condenser fans come on at 240F or somewhere close. If you haven't hit that mark it's within limits eh.

 

Why? I've run mine with stock temp thermostat (88C) as a daily for over 8 years @ 190+k on the ticker and get 17+mpg average. I mean to each their own but what's the big fear here?

Forgot to mention it, original radiator.......

 

I think heat is the biggest problem with these all aluminum engines. If this was a cast iron block with aluminum heads, I would not concern myself with it as much, but I want to take any precautions i can think of to keep my liners intact, heads and block from warping, etc.
You are right, to each his own, and I respect that. If it works for you, that is what it is all about.
I have been working on, and building engines since 1969, and like most guys, yourself included, take what we have learned over the years and apply it to what we are currently working on. Since I have only had the luxury of owning a Land Rover for 6 months, I have relied on my experience and the experience of the forum members. I usually only give my opinion, and anyone here can give theirs and believe me I listen to it all. Learn something new everyday, keeps me young.
Yada,Yada,Yada-George Costanza

 

Seriously?? 220 is normal? I shut my AC off and put the heat on yesterday to quickly cool the truck just before hitting 210 yesterday in traffic after work. Without the AC on (and no heat on) I can idle in traffic in the summer sun all day and never go above 185. Every hose and part in the cooling system is no older than 2 years.

 

your condenser fan should be coming on at 212 or so.

 

I have heard from 210 all the way to 240. So I would like to know when the fan does come on, 240 seems kind of high to me. 210 seems like a good temp for the fan to come on.
From what I found, drowssap is correct 212.