A mixed day yesterday with the Golf!
On the positive side, I fitted the thermostat- she now reaches and holds 90 degrees
I expect to see an improvement in MPGs too
Additionally, the grill blocks didnt cause any overheating..so they can stay!
On the negative side, I traced the banging from the front end to the drivers (RHS) driveshaft- looking at about £85new, or £40 for a 2nd hand one..whilst underneath I also saw that she could do with some new bottom arms and arb droplinks..
She's taxed until end April, but by then I reckon she'll need
Driveshaft
Arb droplinks
Bottom arms
Timing belt/tensioner
and possibly front brakes..
need to have a think