Make:
Rolls-Royce, Bentley
Model:
Silver Spirit, Silver Spur, Corniche, Corniche II, Eight, Mulsanne, Mulsanne S, Turbo R, Continental
Covered Vin Range:
SCBZSOT03HCX20001 to SCBZDOOA2KCH29290
Market Position:
High-end luxury and performance vehicles, serving owners and independent specialists catering to these exclusive marques.
Competitive Analysis:
Few direct competitors for workshop manuals for this specific era of Rolls-Royce and Bentley. High demand among marque enthusiasts and specialist repair shops due to the complexity and unique engineering of these vehicles.
Key Features:
Detailed diagnostic information, specific torque values, clear exploded diagrams, OEM-level repair procedures.
Target Audience:
Professional automotive technicians, experienced DIY mechanics, and owners of these classic luxury vehicles who perform their own maintenance.
Coverage Areas:
Cooling System
Vin Decoding Relevance:
The VIN range is crucial for ensuring the manual covers the specific cooling system configuration (e.g., different radiator sizes, fan types) for the vehicle in question.
Page Count:
Specific page count not provided, assumed comprehensive for cooling system repairs.
Manual Type:
Workshop Manual
Format:
Digital (likely PDF, typical for workshop manuals of this era)
Cooling System Components:
Radiator, coolant hoses, water pump, thermostat, fan (mechanical/electric), heater core, expansion tank, coolant reservoir, temperature sensors, coolant passages, intercooler (for turbocharged models).
Cooling System Sensors:
Engine coolant temperature sensor (ECT sensor), possibly ambient temperature sensor influencing fan control.
Heater System Integration:
Details on how the cooling system integrates with the vehicle's climate control and heating system, including the heater core and associated plumbing.
Maintenance Procedures:
Coolant flush and replacement, hose inspection and replacement, thermostat testing and replacement, water pump inspection and replacement, fan clutch/motor testing and replacement, radiator cleaning and inspection.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Troubleshooting overheating issues, identifying coolant leaks, checking coolant pressure, diagnosing sensor faults, testing fan operation.
Repair Procedures:
Replacement of all cooling system components, repair of coolant leaks, bleeding the cooling system, installation of new parts.
Diagnostic Tools:
Identification of required tools for cooling system service, including hose clamp pliers, radiator pressure tester, drain pan, bleeding equipment.
Troubleshooting Guides:
Systematic troubleshooting flowcharts to diagnose the root cause of cooling system problems.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering detailed disassembly, repair, and reassembly procedures, torque specifications, and diagnostic flowcharts specific to the cooling system.
Diagrams Illustrations:
Detailed line drawings and exploded views of cooling system components for clarity during disassembly and reassembly.
File Format:
PDF (standard for digital manuals, searchable and printable)
Searchability:
Likely searchable PDF text, allowing quick access to specific components or procedures.
Print Quality:
High-resolution, suitable for clear viewing and printing of diagrams and text.
Binding Type:
N/A (for digital format)
Paper Type:
N/A (for digital format)
Engine Type:
V8 (various displacements and configurations across models)
Engine Displacement:
Typically 6.75 Liters (6750cc) for most models, with variations in aspiration (naturally aspirated, turbocharged).
Engine Block Material:
Aluminum alloy or cast iron, depending on specific engine variant. Often featuring a robust, oversquare design.
Valvetrain:
Overhead valve (OHV) with hydraulic lifters. Timing is typically chain-driven for durability.
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 180-300 hp (naturally aspirated) to 300-400+ hp (turbocharged) depending on model and year.
Torque Range:
High torque output, characteristic of large displacement V8 engines, often exceeding 400-500 lb-ft, especially in turbocharged variants.
Fuel Injection:
Bosch K-Jetronic (CIS) or later electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems, depending on model year and specific engine variant.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Premium unleaded recommended).
Transmission Type:
Hydraulic Automatic Transmission (e.g., GM TH400 or proprietary variations).
Optional Transmission:
Rarely offered manual transmissions, primarily for specific Bentley models or very early production runs.
Transmission Features:
Smooth, powerful shifts, often with a torque converter lock-up feature for improved efficiency.
Wheelbase:
Varies by model, typically over 120 inches (e.g., Silver Spirit/Spur ~121.9 inches).
Overall Length:
Varies by model, generally large sedans and coupes, often exceeding 18 feet.
Body Styles:
Saloon (Sedan), Coupe, Convertible.
Curb Weight:
Typically in the range of 4,500 - 5,500 lbs (2040 - 2500 kg) due to robust construction and luxury appointments.
Safety Ratings:
No standardized crash test ratings (e.g., NHTSA/Euro NCAP) typically available for vehicles of this vintage; safety features focused on passive protection.
Active Safety Features:
ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) became standard on later models.
Passive Safety Features:
Reinforced chassis, dual-circuit braking systems, safety glass, seat belts.
Infotainment System:
Basic for the era, typically analog gauges, cassette players, or early CD players. Cooling system monitoring relies on temperature gauge and warning lights.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Cruise control standard on most models.
Connectivity Features:
Not applicable by modern standards; focus on mechanical systems.
Cooling System Service Interval:
Coolant replacement typically every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles, depending on coolant type and manufacturer recommendation.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze/coolant, often a specific blend recommended by Rolls-Royce/Bentley for corrosion protection. Consult manual for exact specifications (e.g., OAT or HOAT).
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 10-14 Liters (10.5-14.8 US Quarts), varies by model and engine. Refer to manual for precise capacity.
Coolant Mixture:
Typically a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water for optimal freeze and boil-over protection. Manual will specify exact ratio.
Common Cooling Issues:
Degradation of coolant hoses leading to leaks, failure of viscous fan clutch or electric fan motor, thermostat sticking, radiator corrosion, water pump seal failure, heater matrix leaks.
Corrosion Risks:
Potential for corrosion in aluminum components (radiator, engine block) if improper coolant or water is used.
Brand Heritage:
Rolls-Royce and Bentley represent the pinnacle of British automotive luxury and craftsmanship, known for their silent powertrains, opulent interiors, and bespoke manufacturing.
Model Evolution:
These models represent the late 20th-century iteration of the iconic large luxury sedans and coupes, evolving from earlier designs with continuous refinement in performance, comfort, and technology.
Shared Platforms:
Some models shared certain underlying chassis and powertrain components, reflecting the integrated nature of Rolls-Royce and Bentley under the Vickers ownership during this period.
Production Period:
The VIN range suggests models produced in the late 1980s to early 1990s.
