1982 FC35 Kohler/Perkins overheating

[chadzeilenga]

Hi All,
I'm preparing to pick up my 1982 FC35 this weekend and the owner has been going through it to ensure everything is working well. He has discovered the 12.5kW Kohler/Perkins genset is overheating after about 8min of operation.

From what I gather he doesn't believe that there is coolant flow. To me this would point to a bad waterpump/impeller, plugged radiator, stuck thermostat or some type of airlock.

I don't think the coolant system has been opened recently, so that should eliminate the airlock issue.

Is it common for these to have issues with waterpump/impellers? I read through what I could find on WOG and it doesn't seem to be a common issue which is leading me to believe it to be a radiator issue. Time to break out the vinegar

[Ssmarinediesel]

I'd look at the temp regulator (thermostat), it might be stuck. Also look at the fan and the belt.

[Tallybird]

Ask the owner if the upper radiator hose is getting warm. If no, probably the thermostat. If yes, then what you have listed is the list I would start with.

[Tallybird]

Hey, I remember you said this bird was in Alabama but I can’t remember where. So I don’t know if this applies so out of abundance of caution please keep your eye on Rafael.

[chadzeilenga]

Originally Posted by Tallybird

Hey, I remember you said this bird was in Alabama but I can’t remember where. So I don’t know if this applies so out of abundance of caution please keep your eye on Rafael.

Yes, it's in Gulf Shores, I see Rafael is the latest storm. I was planning to do my inspection on Friday, but will see. Don't need to drive home in that!

I'll have my IR gun with me and will check if there is a temp change in/out of the radiator. I can also remove the thermostat and check for coolant movement as well.