Can you install control flaps in engine tin, with out dropping the engine? Options

[nebreitling]

hi all

i've got a crusty engine tin that probably needs sorting through, but i live in an apartment near campus (i.e. no garage), and dropping my engine isn't really a great option (i lack dolly's, enough floor jacks, and the gf probably wouldn't appreciate an engine on the kitchen floor).

I think that my control flaps are stuck in the open position, as it does take a bit of time for her to warm up, but also, she does seem to run a little on the warm side. oil temps hang out around 210-215 for a while, but will eventually climb up to ~225 (maybe a little more -- up towards the red) if i drive long enough -- particularly in traffic. i found that the PO had disconnected the thermostat, and the control arm that connects the two flaps won't budge.

Cylinder head temps are unknown.

so i want to crack open the tin and try to get it all working as stock. what do people say -- is this possible w/ out dropping the engine?

thanks, nathan

[SirAndy]

i'd say take the tin off and check for the flaps.
make sure they're WIDE open (air on the cylinders and oil-cooler)
then glue them down and forget about the thermostat.

your car will need all the cooling it can get, even in the "winter" here in CA.

just make sure the flap on the pass. side is down so the oil cooler get's air.
that's probably what the PO did. it is somewhat common around here.

later,
Andy