temperature gauge staying low

[vjr]

Hi all

Went for a drive tonight on the 2nd day of ownership of my 156 and noticed the temp gauge didn't budge from the far left. (If it did, I didn't notice and I checked quiet a few times). On a previous drive I noticed it would be low one moment then up around 90 the next.

From reading previous threads, I guess this is the 'stuck open thermostat' problem  So, looks like I'm already up for some hundreds of bucks for a new one.. But, does this have an effect on the engine and/or performance, or just the gauge? Should I take it in immediately to get looked at? Not sure from the other threads.. is there a definitive answer on this? Thanks.

[Fast Eddie]

dont hesitate, get it into an Alfa mechanic NOW in case it does cause other issues.  worth having it checked now, rather than waiting for a "what if" situation.  depending on suburb, chekc out the listing son this website -
Maranello/Pursang - Brunswick
Italian Job - Oakleigh
Alfpa/Monza - Baywater
plus others

[John Hanslow]

Ed is on the money here.  Check it out just in case there is a disaster.  Check our sponsors page as suggested. Some even give discounts to club members so you may want to take advantage of our benefits.

A new member of the club is Gabriel Massa, of  'Il Bolide Rosso'.  Tel: 9484-6534.

As a 156 specialist mechanic with the Analyser, he said he would welcome any calls and give advice as needed.

I do hope you had a pre-purchase inspection (not a road worthy) of the car to determine such typical 156 issues were ok, rectified etc, ... otherwise for $100- you may get some peace of mind with a post inspection.

Make some enquiries, you want a mechanic who is an enthusiast, an alfa specialist who will give you the options here.

Cheers.

[vjr]

Thanks for the replies.

Robert Lane, Brighton (Vic) said there was no danger to the engine; 'can replace it [thermostat]' or 'not worry about it' apparently. Around $320 for the job.

The Italian Job in Oakleigh said it will cause the fuel mixture to be too rich and the engine won't run at it's best. Should get it changed. Around $240.

Forgot to ask either one if they give AROCA member discounts.

[Robert. Dale]

When the thermostat fails on the modern Alfa engines it stays open causing the Engine to run cooler than normal. Because of this the Engine Management System richens the fuel mixture as per a cold start causing extra fuel use.

I changed mine myself, the new thermostat cost around $120.00 from Milano Wreckers in Thomastown and it took about 1 Hour to replace.

The Temp Gauge now allways stays around 85-90 Degrees C. and the car uses less fuel.

[vjr]

When the thermostat fails on the modern Alfa engines it stays open causing the Engine to run cooler than normal. Because of this the Engine Management System richens the fuel mixture as per a cold start causing extra fuel use.

I changed mine myself, the new thermostat cost around $120.00 from Milano Wreckers in Thomastown and it took about 1 Hour to replace.

The Temp Gauge now allways stays around 85-90 Degrees C. and the car uses less fuel.

Thanks. I assume this requires a reasonable degree of mechanical aptitude.. I'm guessing I'll be booking it in at The Italian Job (they reckon about 45min-1hr).