Hey all -
I hope that life is good in Jaguar land. My mother's Jaguar has me a little bit flummoxed, and I was hoping that you guys might be able to help.
She has a little problem with exploding thermostats. The first three lasted about 18 months each. The first went with a seized AC compressor that caused the engine to overheat, and the car was towed to the dealer. The dealer replaced the compressor, thermostat under warranty and returned the car. 18 months later on a very hot day again, the thermostat snapped closed causing an extreme overheating condition and the car was then towed to the independent garage who replaced the dealership when they were unable to service the car competently. Again the thermostat was replaced. 18 months later that thermostat went on a very hot day, and again the thermostat was replaced. That thermostat lasted about 1 month leading to an overcooling condition and inoperable heat. My mechanic showed me the remains of the thermostat, which was mostly lieing in the lower radiator hose when the clips to the housing blew apart.
I had him replace the water pump along with the thermostat since I felt that there must be something else wrong with the car. It currently operates perfectly, but I have inspected the old pump, heated it and tried to get the impellar to spin on its shaft, and I can't really find a problem with the thing. Any theories as to whether the pump was bad or if there is something that I am overlooking? I have had the fans and fan switches checked and they are working at specification. I don't get it, and we are looking at selling the car if my mother can't rely on it to run.
Anything that you guys can tell me about Jaguar cooling systems could help. Help! I am at a total loss.