Running cool and wobble-free
1994 ROVER 216 SLi
The Rover’s bodywork may be dented, faded, rusty, different shades of red and peppered with welding scars and peeling lacquer, but it drives remarkably well. So with its MoT done and dusted, it seemed like a good time to sort out its few mechanical issues.
The first of these – namely that the front anti-roll bar drop-link bushes were perished – had been highlighted as an advisory at the test, so it was off to Dawson Motors in Peterborough. It was quite an easy job, but needed someone with the right tools, expertise and lifting ability – not me, in other words.
Besides, there were other jobs to do. The cooling fan wasn’t cutting in when it was supposed to, and while the Rover seemed happy to idle for 20 minutes or so before starting to get uncomfortably hot, this obviously wasn’t the happiest of scenarios, especially given that the car had come perilously close to overheating, not once, but twice. Testing had proved that the fan motor and wiring were fine, leaving the switch as the likely culprit. Unfortunately, this is located, rather inconveniently, at the back of the engine and could only be changed from underneath. I don’t know if it’s worked yet – the hot summer weather is now but a distant memory – but I’m sure it won’t be too long before I get stuck in a big traffic jam. This is the UK, after all.
Finally, the two front tyres were low on tread and had developed a wobble between 50mph and 70mph. I’m not a fan of part-worn tyres, but Craig found two replacements from a reputable business for just £30. They were considerably better than what they replaced, solved the wheel vibration, and convinced me that they were a wise budget move during some very rainy weather on the day of fitment.
Good work all round, I’d say.