Gents,

after my drama`s re:- getting my car started, I find she is getting hot very quickly, (with3/4 minutes). I have no temp guage and no fan (have old x flow fan but will buy electric soon) .The exhaust manifold has gone a nice purple colour and water dribbles from the overflow spout. (underneath filler cap) So A) is it best to fit an expansion tank. B) should I fit the old fan back on.c) Could timing be out drastically.
Thanks
Andy p

Well i'd suggest fitting a temperature gauge and fan before running it for that length of time again !

Worth fitting a header tank but sounds like you may have an air lock , try drilling the outer edge of the thermostat with a 3mm drill or removing thermostat and housing when filling system until water runs from hole in head, refit stat and housing and top up system . Ignition timing may be retarded which can cause overheating . HTH.

Check the ignition timing isn't way too retarded and the centrafugal advance isn't stuck.

If the ignition timing is is retarded most of the heat energy that should go into useful work on the pistons gets rejected to the cooling system and exhaust gas.