Apart from the list of possibilities listed by Markus Weiher, overheating can also be due to the following : 1 ) dust clogged radiator fins. 2 ) timing in high "advance" position. 3 ) worn out water pump. 4 ) radiator leak ( need to keep on adding water to radiator ) plastic radiators develop minute cracks 5 ) radiator cap has loose spring 6 ) leaking radiator hoose or loose clamp 7 ) water passages in engine block blocked ( needs to be flushed ) 8 ) faulty thermostat ( clogged and stuck ) If the cylinder gasket is "blown" the car will not have power and there will be mixing of oil and water, in which case the oil will be like yoghurt and creamish brown in color. Fan is direct coupled.