20 replies to this topic

[matt_bfc]

Hi guys,
My mini overheated yesterday and now it won't start. I found a split in one of the pipes, I changed that with a new one. There is a leak that seems to be coming from near the exhaust manifold and water comes out the exhaust when I try to start the engine.
Any ideas on what it might be will be helpful.
Cheers matt

[dave-88_123]

sounds like the head gasket could be at fault id get a compresion tester on it

Edited by dave-88_123, 09 August 2012 - 07:41 AM.

[jeebz]

Does sound like head gasket, compresion test, or if you don't have the kit, check the colour of the oil with the dipstick. Cloudy milky colour that sometimes the smell sticks up your nose will mean head gasket

[matt_bfc]

Thanks for the replies, I've checked the oil and it isn't cloudy/milky. I'll ask around for a compression tester anyway.
Cheers

[matt_bfc]

Also, I've only had the mini for a month and The head gasket was replace and the head was skimmed before I got it. I've got the receipts to show it so I know it's been done. Also its got a new thermostat aswell.

[jeebz]

If there was no or little water in the system it would have still caused the engine to overheat, with the possibility of damaging the head gasket or warping the head. The split in the pipe may have been the reason it overheated and had to have the head skimmed in the first place. Water coming out of the exhaust is a clear indication that water is getting into the cylinders, usually because of the head gasket.

[matt_bfc]

Ive finally got round to replacing the head gasket, the gasket dosent seem to have any defects but there was water in the cylinders so it must have been knackered. ive replaced that along with some new spark plugs but it still wont start. im lost for ideas so any help would be welcome.

Cheers Matt

[matt_bfc]

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[1984mini25]

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Not starting as in how? Not turning over, no spark, fuel etc, etc.

[matt_bfc]

Theres a spark, it turns over and theres fuel...

[MiniLandy]

Tappet gaps?

[irish.yobbo]

Did you check how flat the head was when changing the gasket? If the head was warped (they usually warp over time anyway) you won't get a good seal, and it will need machining. Any overheating can re-warp the head. The machining isn't very expensive.

Did you check your valves to make sure they're not sticking?

[jeebz]

Check the head. Easiest way is with flat ruler or square, and shine a light behind it. Happened to my old scirocco. Gasket was alright but head had warped.

[MiniLandy]

It's very unlikely a chunky, cast iron head like the mini's will warp.

Plus in this case, you'll have to dismantle it to check for trueness.

[matt_bfc]

Right, i have checked the head and the head was fine, ( checked with a spirit leval ) i have removed all four plugs and fuel is coming out of two of the cylinders. i couldnt check if the valves are sticking as i dont have the correct tool to remove them. i have removed the plugs and checked for compression ( dont have a tester so use my finger to check for compression ) tried bump starting her and it just comes to a hault after a few tries. any advise would be great

Thanks, matt