Overheating in East Overshoe, VT

[Antilles Engineering <antilles@madriver.com>]

Dear Q-Listers,

I have failed to renew my sub to the Q-list due to biz trips, etc., so I ask
your indulgence in responding either directly to my email address or, at
least cc-ing me if you post to the List.

Problem:  I've seen this problem on the list several times but "was above it
all" in that we live in a cool climate and our 1990 200 sedan has always run
cool as a cucumber.  Of course, the better half drove it down to Tumbridge
today and overheated.  (Great gnashing of teeth on this end, but at least
she has learned about "cooling down" a hot engine without seizing it.)
(((Let us hope.)))

Symptons:  The electric cooling pump thing seems to be running.  All fan
belts are in place.  No rude noises from pumps, belts, engine.   Coolant is
not leaking.  BUT electric fan is not running, even when the engine is hot
or when the AC is "on."  By 'Hot", I mean, on the analog gauge, there are
three marks closely grouped together on the cold end of the guage, then a
minor line, then a thicker line.  We normally high very tightly on just
slightly above the thicker line. Today, my "Audi's are just like my VW,
aren't they??" reported boil over and red line to the last mark!
(Agggggggg!!!!)  

 Methinks that there must be a problem with the electric fan as a test drive
tonight up hill and down dale revealed tha the analog temp guage exibits a
steady creep upwards on the hills and a steady  creep downward on the
declines (no erratic needle movements, as per a semi-stuck thermostat.)  

I have all a Volt meter and can check availability of power to the terminals
on the electric fan.  But when does it kick in.  Can I jumper a fuse or
relay to "test" the fan.  Which one??  Or do I punt?

I hunger for knowledge and, if necessary, will turn out my pocket linings to
apease the Audi Gods.  (But I'd rather spend a few farthings, rather than
200 quid in the process.)

Donations (only of knowledge) greatly appreciated and TIA for this PITA.

Doug Terman