Flashing red temp light with headlights

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Ant-t
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Flashing red temp light with headlights

Post by Ant-t »

My van is doing a strange thing, I'm getting the red temp light flashing when I put my headlights on, there is also a slight drop in revs when the headlights go on so probably a significant voltage drop. When the headlights are switched off the flashing red light stops everytime, van tested when its up to temperature. Its an early van and my coolant level is good.

Following recent charging issues I've fitted a new battery, had my alternator checked out, new voltage regulator, new main earth strap and cleaned up battery and coil earths. The main battery to starter cable is recent with good, clean connections. The battery to dash cable looks original.
1983 DG Kamper 2

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937carrera
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Re: Flashing red temp light with headlights

Post by 937carrera »

Does the red temp light behave correctly when switching the ignition on ?
1981 RHD 2.0 Aircooled Leisuredrive project, CU engine
1990 RHD 1.9 Auto Sleeper with DF/DG engine

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Mocki
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Re: Flashing red temp light with headlights

Post by Mocki »

It’s a bad earth !
You could also try taking the relay out for the coolant warning ( up above the fuse box near the earth crown) numbered 42 or 43 , and check the contacts are not corroded and manky
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Ant-t
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Re: Flashing red temp light with headlights

Post by Ant-t »

Thanks for the input, the red light behaves as normal when I turn the ignition on, it goes out after a few seconds, will check the earth's tomorrow.
1983 DG Kamper 2

300CE
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Re: Flashing red temp light with headlights

Post by 300CE »

Double check you haven’t got a side light bulb out - my high beam light came on when I switched my lights on and it was down to a blown side light bulb.
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Ant-t
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Re: Flashing red temp light with headlights

Post by Ant-t »

Thanks, I've checked the earth's at the dash and all seems good. I'm now getting the flashing light and a rising temp gauge which I've had before, I think my header to expansion tank connection is toast. Might be time to replace the header tank with an upgrade.
1983 DG Kamper 2

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937carrera
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Re: Flashing red temp light with headlights

Post by 937carrera »

Chack what module you have - I suspect it is an early "tall" type 42 module, which sends the temp gauge to the right as well as flashing the light. The later type 43 modules don't do this.

Check the water levels in both tanks at the rear, top up as necessary, and make sure the connectors for the low level gauge are clean and in good condition
1981 RHD 2.0 Aircooled Leisuredrive project, CU engine
1990 RHD 1.9 Auto Sleeper with DF/DG engine

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Ant-t
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Re: Flashing red temp light with headlights

Post by Ant-t »

It's a 42 so the temp guage goes straight to the right when the header is low. I've repaired the hose connection before as it was bodged when I bought my van. Once the header is topped up the issue is solved, time to do a more permanent repair.
1983 DG Kamper 2

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