Date: Fri, 17 Oct 1997
Hi. Just bought a 1971 P1800E from California. The previous owner had it since 1977. Not driven much, but the paint/body and the interior are next to perfect with no scratches or any noticeable problems. The car is gorgeous. Just one problem. Took it to the local mechanic in our area, and in taking the radiator out, the coolant fluid came out o.k. from the radiator, but it was like mud coming out of the engine. What would cause this? Any suggestions or possible problems? If compression checks out o.k., even though the car has not been driven much, would it be advisable to do a complete overhaul?
On the way back to Idaho, stopping at the bigger gas stations, several people would find their way to ask questions about the car. A lot of curiosity.... It took sometimes a considerable time to get out of the gas station. People on the highway waving with big smiles ... thumbs up. Didn't know this car is that well-known or liked. It sure looks good.
Anyway, appreciate your efforts and would like to thank in advance for any possible suggestions.
Arto Pihlajisto
E-mail: atp-aviator@juno.com
Arto -
I wouldn't worry about the "mud" coming out with the engine coolant. The engine drain cock is at the lowest point in the area of the block that is filled with coolant. This is so you can drain as much as possible. Naturally, all the rust and crud accumulate at the lowest spot, hence the mud.
Shoot, the first time I drained the block in my car, the drain cock was plugged so bad nothing came out when I unscrewed it. I had to use a piece of wire to clear it enough to start the coolant flowing.
Probably the previous owner never bothered to flush the block on your car. (Should be done annually.) Whatever, dirty coolant is no reason to overhaul an engine. The compression check is a good indicator of whether you need internal engine work. If the compression is o.k., then concentrate on fixing up the outside of the engine -- belts, hoses, filters, pumps, that sort of thing. It's also good to check the valve clearances about once a year.
Sounds like you got a good one. Hope you get to enjoy it for a long time to come. You'll get used to the attention after a while, and the attention will die down a little in your neighborhood as people get used to seeing the car.
-Glenn.