Washed 308 & runs crappy & coolant overflows | FerrariChat

Washed 308 & runs crappy & coolant overflows

Discussion in 'Technical Q&A' started by BillyD, Jun 30, 2005.

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  1. BillyD

    BillyD Formula 3
    Silver Subscribed

    Feb 28, 2004
    1,835
    Pacific Northwest
    Full Name:
    Bill
    I think this happened last time I washed it too. I intentionally took it for a spin around the block to dry off the engine. Seemed to run fine at 1st but the longer I drove it the more it missed in upper rpms & funnier it sounded. Then when I pulled into driveway it spewed coolant out of overflow tank even tho temp read fine. You guys cover the engine b4 washing? I have all the dist & coil rubbers in place, whats up?
    thanks
    Bill
     
  2. pma1010

    pma1010 F1 Rookie

    Jul 21, 2002
    2,559
    Chicago
    Full Name:
    Philip
    Dry out the plug wells. Use compressed air if you have access to a compressor. Coolant - check the level and make sure the system is bled (air removed) -- use the bleed screws,
    Philip
     
  3. Verell

    Verell F1 Veteran
    Consultant Owner

    May 5, 2001
    7,022
    Groton, MA
    Full Name:
    Verell Boaen
    I keep a large plastic leaf bag that I've cut open. Lay it lay across the motor when washing the car, & when I think it may get rained on. Usually don't have problems if engine does get wet, but this helps ensure they don't have a chance to occur.

    Follow pma1010's advice to recover now that you've gotten it soaked.
     
  4. f355spider

    f355spider F1 World Champ
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    May 29, 2001
    18,053
    USA
    Verell's idea is a good one, but not a permanent one for a NW resident. ;)
    I had the exact same problem...for starters, remove the plug caps and extenders, and blow out the plug wells as recommended. You may need to replace a plug or two that may have fouled.

    The permanent fix is to call T.Rutlands or Ricambi, and order 8 new spark plug rubber caps. New, tight fitting plug caps will keep the water out when washing. After I finally realized I needed new ones (hey they were the original 22 year old ones!), and replaced them, I never had another problem. But man, what frustration going through this a couple times!!

    Dave
     
  5. f355spider

    f355spider F1 World Champ
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    May 29, 2001
    18,053
    USA
    As far as the coolant, you may have simply over filled it. When stone cold, it should be 6cm below the filler neck.
     
  6. BillyD

    BillyD Formula 3
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    Feb 28, 2004
    1,835
    Pacific Northwest
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    Bill
    Thanks Guys, that did it.
    Bill
     
  7. Verell

    Verell F1 Veteran
    Consultant Owner

    May 5, 2001
    7,022
    Groton, MA
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    Verell Boaen
    My caps seal quite well, but I still use the bag when washing as a jet of water under pressure coming thru the louvers can still get under a cap.
     
  8. parkerfe

    parkerfe F1 World Champ

    Sep 4, 2001
    12,887
    Cumming, Georgia
    Full Name:
    Franklin E. Parker
    When I wash my Boxer I open the rear bonnet and wash the entire engine and engine compartment with soap and water and have never had a problem. I've done the same thing with my previous Ferraris and other marques as well. After all, the engine gets wet when you drive in the rain anyway. The problem is likely just one of those unexplainable coincidences that are frequent in life.
     
  9. pete04222

    pete04222 Formula Junior

    Nov 1, 2003
    613
    Maine, USA
    Full Name:
    Peter Cyr
    I don't do anything special when I wash my car. Heck, I've even pressure washed my engine and started it up and drove it away. If you are having problems, the problem is from something made of rubber.
     
  10. f355spider

    f355spider F1 World Champ
    Owner Rossa Subscribed

    May 29, 2001
    18,053
    USA
    Nope, if you experience the problem more than once, I would say you need new spark plug caps. Water should not be getting down into the plug holes/wells.
     

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