Struggles to run after Radiator change

[robbierobinson 0]

Hiya, Have just fitted a new Radiator, mk3 2.0. Flushed out old coolant. Replaced with new radiator and added coolant. Car now struggles to start, runs fine for a few minutes then suddenly stops, (lack of fuel maybe!???) car then very difficult to start again.

Car was running ok, starting ok before radiator change.

Have checked points, leads, battery terminals, Will check sparks next, but car was fine before radiator change????

Fitted Radiator is exactly the same as the old one

 

any advice welcome 

 

regards P Robinson

 

Edited March 3, 2024 by robbierobinson
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[C0RKTINA 104]

changing the rad should make no difference, unless coolant sprayed everywhere. 

[robbierobinson 0]

Will persevere, do usual checks.

thanks.

[John Mack 327]

Maybe.....and it's unlikely, but could your auto-choke have no coolant circulating around it ?   Could this have fowled the plugs ?

 

I'm thinking though it's something that was going to happen anyway and it's just coincidence you've replaced the radiator.

[robbierobinson 0]

Thanks fitted with a manual choke, checking plugs is next on the list.🤞🏻

[sheffieldcortinacentre 726]

Your I'd says 72 gxl is this the car?

If so make sure the loom isn't trapped under rad ( it runs along inner front panel & i think coil wire is contained in it) as if so it maybe getting hot & shorting to earth when the insulation gets thin then when engine stalls & wiring cools ( solidifies ) re insulates until it heats up again.

 

Had this many years ago on a MK1 fiesta drove you nuts until rad was removed & crush marks could be seen on loom ( it was ignition wire going to starter than ran along front cross member).

[robbierobinson 0]

Thanks for that will double check. Yes it’s a 72 gxl👍

[sierra3dr 53]

Robbie,you might need to adjust the idle speed and mixture screw 

[robbierobinson 0]

Managed to get car running, ran at high revs for a while then left at idle for about 15 mins, seems ok. think it might of been a bit of coolant over engine. Car seems to run fine now will get out weekend to check. Going to look at idle mixture screws too. Thanks for all your comments and advice.

 

Robbie🤗👍

[C0RKTINA 104]

wow, was I right for once?  

[sheffieldcortinacentre 726]

Quick give him a rub down with a damp Haynes manual.

[robbierobinson 0]

Thanks all, schoolboy error🙄. Took car for a run this morning and all is well. Thanks for all comments/advice.👍