Citroen ZX 1.4 - Running temperature??

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Mon 20 Dec 2004 13:59
Citroen ZX 1.4 - Running temperature?? - NeilT
Hi,

I have just bought a cheap, low mileage, good condition (apart from a dent in the rear qurter panel) Citroen ZX for my brother from another family member.

The problem is, while driving from Chesterfield to Hertfordshire (about 140miles) I noticed that the temp gauge seemed to move up and down with speed.
There are 3 main lines on the gauge marked 60, 90 & 120, and 2 intermediates which I assume are 75 & 105. There is also a small red one just before 120 mark which looks about 115.
The needle seems to be between 90 and 105 mark most of the time, moving to 105 if cruising at 80+ mph. I just wondered if maybe it was a variable calibrated gauge like some Vauxhalls, and in fact it is marked as 60, 75, 90, 95, 105 (red), 120? this would mean it is only changing between 90 - 95.
It is a 1997 1.4i, and after stopping the car it showed no sign of over heating or hot smells.

Any idea what the normal running temp is on these. If it runs this hot when the ambient temp is 0 degrees C, what will it be like in summer.
I haven't as yet taken the thermostate out to check its operation, but I do know the radiator not blocked.

Neil T
Mondeo Ghia TDCi 130 Estate, SEAT Toledo 20VT Sport, Various Montegos...
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