HOT Running 1995 456GT | FerrariChat

HOT Running 1995 456GT

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by Angel Bello, Esq., Dec 15, 2003.

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  1. Angel Bello, Esq.

    Dec 10, 2003
    30
    I own a 1995 456GT (U.S.) that I recently bought from Ultimate MotorWorks in Orlando, Florida.

    Even during test drive and pre-delivery inspection, I noticed that the car was running "hot", that is, at about 3/4 of the temperature gauge, sometimes even 4/5 (although never into the red colored markings).

    (Even though this is my first 12 cylinder Ferrari, I also currently own a 1984 Mondial which runs much cooler, with the temperature needle tipically smack in the middle.)

    The dealer allegedly addressed the issue, having allegedly flushed the radiator, replaced the thermostat and the coolant.

    Now that the car is in Puerto Rico (the first one in my country), the temperature issue is still, well, an issue.

    The coolant level is full, and I already added a bottle of additive ("Red Line"), without noticeable results.

    Does anyone know if Ferrari makes a "colder" thermostat for this car (that opens up the circulation at a lower temperature) or maybe a "colder" relay for the fans? Parts numbers? Prices?

    I would greatly appreciate any piece of advice.

    Angel Bello, Esq.
    puertorico456gt
     
  2. Napolis

    Napolis Three Time F1 World Champ
    Honorary Owner

    Oct 23, 2002
    32,118
    Full Name:
    Jim Glickenhaus
    This car should not run hot nor is a lower thermostat the answer.
    Is the gauge reading correctly?
    Are the fans coming on?
    Is thermostat opening correctly?
    Is there air in the system? (Needs to be bled)
    Is there white smoke on start up or water in oil? (Head gasket)
    Check the above and we'll take it from there.
     
  3. Angel Bello, Esq.

    Dec 10, 2003
    30
    Napolis:

    Thanks a million for your interest and prompt response.

    Of all the things in your list, the only one I cannot attest to is if the gauge is reading correctly, and if the thermostat is opening as indicated. Now, how do I go about finding out?

    Thanks again.
     
  4. tbakowsky

    tbakowsky F1 World Champ
    Consultant Professional Ferrari Technician

    Sep 18, 2002
    19,349
    The Cold North
    Full Name:
    Tom
    The best way to tell if the gauge is close is to take a direct reading to the engine temp with an inferred thremometer. Or you could (when cold) remove the resivoir cap and put a thermometer in the coolant and then start the engine and let it get warm. The fans should come on before the gauge gets just past the half mark. If you reading on the thermometer and gauge is out then you may have a faulty sender or gauge itself. If they are about equal then it's time to look elsewere
     
  5. Napolis

    Napolis Three Time F1 World Champ
    Honorary Owner

    Oct 23, 2002
    32,118
    Full Name:
    Jim Glickenhaus
    Testing a thermostat is usually done by removing it and placing it in a pan of water on a burner with a thermometer in the water. It should open when water reaches specified temp.
    Gauge should be testable by suppling test voltage and knowing what gauge should read. The temp sending unit must also be tested.
    A good mechanic should be able to test these things.
    Another way to test operating temp is to use an infrared thermometer vrs gauge.
    Bleeding all air out of system isn't easy and I'd make sure that has been done correctly.
    Is there an F dealer or a specialist in PR? That would be best bet.
     

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