Gti 8V problems

[67slider]

Hello, I have a 91 4 door auto Gti so probably the least desirable mk 2 but have plans to re power and restore it at a later date.But will probably drop it with some new wheels to keep me happy for a while. Got to finish another project before I tackle this one. But for now its my daily driver and I'm trying to keep it on the road. I have just replaced all the hoses as they were like putty, thermo switch, plugs, filters etc. It's dropping coolant though, when it sits after a good run. It doesn't over heat when driving or idling, its just when sitting hot it drops coolant. I'm pretty sure its coming from the over flow under the reservoir. The temp gauge never really gets over a quarter is this normal? It also runs really rough after a cold start. Compression test was all good. I have a mechanic friend who's doing the work on it after 2 garages couldn't fix a couple of minor problems but just made them worse. Step by step we are isolating the little problems but I thought if you guys had any ideas that would be great. I would like to work on it myself but just don't have the time. Any help would be awesome.

[Stanton]

Overflow tank cap !!

[67slider]

Yeah the tank cap seems o.k as system is not losing pressure but may be due for replacement anyway.

[Bug_racer]

if its leaking it is loosing pressure . Have a look at the threads too as thats the actual seal (apart from the o-ring)

[mitch750]

check ur housing, from the radiator to the engine, mine was ****ed and was leaking from there.

[ryana89]

Have you got a Bentley repair manual for it yet?

[RedMk2Gti]

The temp gauge never really gets over a quarter is this normal?

No, it's not normal.

[benough]

I'm thinking it could be the thermostat? It's stuck open so it can't get up to temperature.

As for your leaking, maybe just buy a new hose kit from the UK and kill all birds with one stone

[67slider]

Thermostat! All hoses replaced and all fingers crossed.

[67slider]

Thanks for all the advice guys! Thermostat was poked, replaced all the hoses and thermo switch. Now to find some wheels and drop it a bit!