I've just picked up a K-plate Rover 216SLi as a replacement for the dead Renault (see other thread). Not in bad nick for £200, there are a few niggles though:
1) Cambelt. I'm going to change this one right away as there's no recent history - I'm not getting caught a second time! It's the SOHC Honda 16v engine, the local motor factors say there are two belt types, depending on whether it's fitted with a manual or automatic tensioner. Is there a way (e.g. from the engine number) of telling which I have without pulling it all to bits? I can post photos if that would help.
2) Needs a new thermostat - the temperature never gets more than 1/3rd of the way up the gauge, and going down a long hill with the throttle shut it will go down to cold again. Doesn't look too difficult.
3) The idle is a bit erratic - it'll vary between almost stalling and
1200rpm, hot or cold. Also any change in load will affect the idle - turning lights or heated screen on or steering on full lock will drag it down.
4) It wouldn't start when partly warmed up the other night - it'd fire briefly, then die. I was just about to call the AA, tried it again and it fired up no problem. It hasn't done this again since. This may be related to (3) - reading through previous threads the possibilities seem to be: Idle control valve gummed up Faulty temperature sensor Faulty igniter (though there is a receipt for a new one a few months ago) Faulty fuel pump relay "It's a 216, they all do that sir"
I'm hoping there's a simple fix for this last one - any more ideas?