British-Cars.org

Welcome to the DMR Site for British Car Information.

Recommendations

Parts

MG parts spares and accessories are available for MG T Series (TA, MG TB, MG TC, MG TD, MG TF), Magnette, MGA, Twin cam, MGB, MGBGT, MGC, MGC GT, MG Midget, Sprite and other MG models from British car spares company LBCarCo.

MG MGB Technical - thermostat query

Hello,

Please can someone explain how the old style of thermostat works. From the various manuals i have, it looks like it just floats around underneath the thermostat housing.Does it have any electrical connections?

Many thanks,
Alex Davies

It doesn't move around, it's firmly fixed when the cover is in place. When the engine is cold the valve in the centre is closed restricting the water circulation. As the engine warms up a wax pellet in the valve expands, causing it to open progressively as the temperature rises. There's usually a joggle pin which allows some circulation even when the valve is closed, and so prevents air locks.
If you have one handy, to see how it works put it in a saucepan of cold water and gradually heat it. Unless it's a dud you'll see the valve open as the water gets hot. If the valve is open when the water is cold, the it IS a dud and news replacing.
Miles Banister

This thread was discussed on 06/03/2011

MG MGB Technical index

This thread is from the archives. Join this live forum now