Type 4 Thermostat Alternative.

Discussion in 'Mech Tech' started by top banana racing, Nov 25, 2014.

  1. This is the 1st bit, just need to make an enclosure for the electrics. :)
    image.jpg image.jpg

     
    IZZYBAY and keithandtrudystype2 like this.
  2. liking the look of this :)
     
  3. I have a heat sink sensor and the electronics to set it to release at 75 degrees, reckon I'll have it finished at the weekend. :)
     
    Stan likes this.
  4. Sweet! :thumbsup:
    Sometimes the best & simplest solutions are staring you right in the face.... you could also use a 12v stepper / servo motor to take the existing cable
     
  5. video is private doode :(
     
  6. MorkC68

    MorkC68 Administrator

    nice one :thumbsup:
     
  7. I think I've fixed that,,can someone let me know?
     
  8. The original thermo gradually opens and closes with the varying temperatures of the engine, regulating the air flow to provide an almost constant temp depending how hard the engine is working. It's not a simple open or shut.
    Saying that I like what you've done and it's got to be better than B all.
     
    vinnyboy likes this.
  9. You probably already know all this.

    Your gizmo needs to be extended when cold and retracted when hot I think?
     
  10. Cool!
     
  11. Correct.
    It is working the right way round.
    It is only powered whilst cold and shuts as soon as temp is reached.
    It defaults to "hot" running via existing springs. i.e. the way many type 4's are running today, without stats.
    This way if the motor or sensor fail the engine is "safe". The extra wires from the solenoid give a signal to a dash light for extra peace of mind.
    As it's a heat sink it's not prone to the vagaries of wet weather running or the need for undertins which are bloody nigh impossible to come by. :)
    Granted a smooth transition would be more preferable but at least this system works, is easily replaceable and so far has cost £30. :)
     
    SeanOC and oscar like this.
  12. Zed

    Zed Gradually getting grumpier

    Where's the heat sink going?
     
  13. That's the last bit of the puzzle, it can go into ANY bolt in the engine, M6, M8 or M10 or bigger. The temperature is adjustable so, if necessary, I can use my oil temp gauge to fine tune when the flaps open. :)
    i.e. Say the oil has reached 70 degrees it's time to open the flaps but the bolt that I've used may only be 50 degrees, this can be accounted for and set accordingly. Once set, there will be no need to keep checking as the light will cross ref to my existing temp gauge.
     
  14. Zed

    Zed Gradually getting grumpier

    Last question - the operating mech looks bulky and powerful, any plans for something smaller and more discreet?
     
  15. I have a smaller actuating solenoid which I will probably use after I get this, the prototype, to work.
    It does look bulky in the pictures but is actually only 5" by 2" by 3/4". The smaller one is round and black.
    I tried various door/security/vending machine solenoids but they don't have the required travel, shortening the actuating arm to get less travel made the mechanism unreliable. This was the best compromise between practicality, reliability, looks and of course cost.
    Once I've finalised it all, I'll put details of what and where to purchase said parts, all are readily available, I suspect all in it'll cost less than £50.
    I agree that a stepper motor and control system to allow a smooth transition over 5 mins would be better but would be around £200 which I think is too much for something that is not completely necessary (I've done nearly 10,000 miles on two different type 4's with no thermostat). It's a budget idea that I think will work and I'm prepared to do the 'trial' work to find out. :)
     

  16. my understanding and from personal experience is that there isnt much controling or regulating of the temp. thermostat pretty much just extends when engine gets warm and retracts when cools down. thermostat would have to be mint, real tight and very sensitive to continuously regulate the temp. In saying that, to compliment what you say, a servo, stepper motor or proportional solenoid could be used.
     
  17. That's what I thought but I've never looked whilst driving.
    If someone tells me I'm going wrong with this I'll gladly listen but I think I've got it close now.
     
    Freakytate likes this.
  18. The other good thing about this is, if you're not happy or come across an original working system then you can re-fit it. The only issue being two M6 holes in the fan casing which are very easy to plug. :)
     
  19. vinnyboy likes this.

Share This Page