water leaks

[ralt]

Hi.
I had to adjust the alternator belt on my na6 and removed the crossover pipe. I then decided to check the hoses on the "t" piece on the bottom of the thermostat housing. I don't use the factory spring clips use screw type clips. Checked tightness and all ok except I had a drip of water coming from where the "t" piece goes into the housing. Took the hoses off and found I could rotate the "t" in the housing so pulled it out and found it had completely corroded. Went to repco no brass "t" pieces however plastic the right size was available. From there on it was a relatively easy after cutting of the large lip on one end which was going into the housing. Took the thermostat out ran a drill through the housing two part epoxy and hammer to tap it in and all ok. Seeing my car is 28 years old I should check all inserts which support water.
Also the hose from the "t" piece which goes down the front of the motor has a right angled pipe. This pipe is made by cutting two pipes a 45 degrees which are fused together (poor design ) The join corrodes through and leaks where you may not notice. You will have remove the undertray to inspect.
Just thought you all may like to know because an overheated engine in these cars is virtually their death warrant.