Fiesta & Ka Endura-E thermostat housing leaks.
Here's my other video - how to remove thermostat and housing;
• Thermostat removal on a Fiesta 1.3 (Endura...
Just a short advisory video that shows why a leaking thermostat housing should be investigated and fixed as soon as possible. These engines are found in some Ford Fiesta and the Ka models from mid-nineties up to 2002. Basically these units are ancient and have been around for many decades. Back in mid-nineties Ford extended the lifespan by adding multi-point injection, improving crank case breathing and emissions control plus a host of other changes to get the Fiesta and the Ka through increasingly tough Euro-emissions laws. Despite these 'tweaks' the venerable OHV unit is still a simple and tough engine but prone to leaks and running problems if not regularly serviced. The video shows why coolant leaks from the thermostat housing should be rectified quickly because water tends to collect around the nearest spark plug (plug one) which then rusts into the head. This can make it very difficult to remove the spark plug later. Also any moisture around number one plug and HT lead can affect operation and reduce efficiency which in turn increases fuel consumption and emissions. So if you're thinking of buying a used Fiesta or Ka with the Endura-E OHV petrol engine then check them carefully. Any rust-coloured traces around spark plug indicates a coolant leak. The spark plugs can still seize in the head even if the threads were coated with copper based grease. Trying to remove a seized plug then getting the thread drilled out and helicoil insert fitted can get very expensive if professionally done. Far better to prevent this from happening in the first place by regular checks and maintenance.
Hope the video helps, I'm aiming this at owners that are new to car maintenance and repair but I'm sure experienced amateur and pro car mechanics will still find it useful.
Check out my blog on http://howtomaintainyourcar.blogspot.com
Thanks for watching.