Hi Mech-Warriors,
I recently bought an '87 Kia Besta (identical to a Mazda Bongo Brawny, drivetrain of a Mazda B2000) and it's having a couple of problems.
First, and most pressing, is the overheat issue which started shortly after I purchased the vehicle. Idling, the car runs great, does not over heat. Put the engine under load, and within ~45 seconds I'm north of the red.
I've checked the coolant, it's topped up, running the car with the rad cap off and a funnel full of coolant, the pump and thermostat both appear to be doing their jobs.
I did an oil change on the weekend, and have driven 300km since. The oil looks as clean as when I put it in. I didn't do a filter change as I was in a rush and couldn't get the old one twisted off.
Would the symptoms I've described align up with a problem with the oil system or should I still be focusing on cooling system? There is minimal white smoke after I'm up to temp.
Could there be a blockage in the filter? Failed oil pump?
I'm not seeing coolant in the oil or vice versa so i think my head gasket is safe, for now.
Appreciate all input.