81 Jetta Diesel w/ cooling problem

[jack4954]

Hey All,
Well, here is the scoop. Found this LOVELY in a field. Hadn't been driven for 6 yrs. Engine turned over so the mechanic said bring her up. After a complete brake job I was off. It has a 1.6 and is a manual shift (5sp). Drove for about 1K miles and the temp guage (installed a manual) started easing up till it got to above 220. Installed new radiator, water pump, thermostat, had head completely redone (over $300, ouch). Mechanic calls me and tells me that the cooling system has excessive presure in it. He thinks its a cracked block, causing the presure.
Anyone have this experience before? If it is a cracked block I guess I have a new radiator and head for sale cheap.
Thanks everyone,
Jack
email add is
newbielink:mailto:[email protected] [nonactive]

[jtanguay]

if its a cracked block... I'd say try http://www.steelseal.com.  It may or may not work, but it's worth a shot (rather than junking your car that you've already put good money into...)

really sucks  

if you have the turbo version with the oil cooler, maybe that is the cause of your problems?  guessing no since an '81 jetta wont be turbo (unless someone swapped one in)