Diagnosing Coolant Smell and Idle Over Heat

[MrChinn]

First off I apologize if there is a thread for this in exsitence already. I searched but didn't find exactly what I was looking for. ( i did see the m60 thread)

I have the m50 in my 91 525i 232k miles. I have replaced almost the whole coolant system except for the thermostat and the fan clutch. I had an idle over heat and i smell coolant slightly when i start up. I see no leaks. my coolant level is good. i probably do need to bleed it the right way (front end raised up and have my trusty turkey baster) I am not sure if it is just o rings on the heating core or if my thermostat is bad and I was wondering how to tell the difference.

[sfgearhead]

overheating at idle points to the fan clutch going out. Thermostats are cheap too, just replace it.

If you smell coolant it must be leaking somewhere, check your connections, and if you smell it in the car it unfortunately might be the heater core.

[MrChinn]

overheating at idle points to the fan clutch going out. Thermostats are cheap too, just replace it.

If you smell coolant it must be leaking somewhere, check your connections, and if you smell it in the car it unfortunately might be the heater core.


thanks pal.

do you think i should replace the o rings on the heating core? or mebbe just start with the fan clutch and the thermostat and see if that fixes the issue?