Strange VVT overheating problem!!

A scan tool will tell you how hot its actually running and if you run it with the rad cap off you will see when the thermostat opens and you can check the temperature against the scan tool reading. A pressure test might be a good idea, I had a similar issue on another vehicle recently and it turned out to be a very small leak from the top of the rad, a bad rad cap would give similar symptoms as well.

I suspect the viscous fan is failing. I think Martin has done an article found on the main website about how he fixed and tested his.

Kirkynut

Yeah it's the rolled up newspaper trick
My VVT also has an electric fan which,I believe,is for the air con??
It seems a bit large for that as it covers the radiator but it's a genuine item??
Pity I can't get that to switch on early

You could run a temporary power supply to the aircon fan via a relay to see if it is the fan and run the aircon fan when it's hot. If it cools down quickly you've found your problem!

Kirkynut

Got the same problem with my truck, under normal driving conditions its fine but as soon as you work it hard the temp gauge rises and the only thing that will sort it is to put the blowers on (or drive around with half a tree jacking the bonnet up)

Ive tried loads of different things thermostat, fan, packing the back end of bonnet up and cutting bonnet vents in. My next step was going to fit an electric fan but not everyone has this problem, some of you even have winches blocking the air flow and your running fine. so im going for rad flush next

Haven't tried a rad flush but it's a standard Jimny with 48000 mls and never been off road so would it really need flushing??