BMW Repair: E30 overheating (temp gauge max), fan clutch, waterpump


Question
When ever i was sitting in traffic or slow moving the temp gauge would creep into the red but while driving it would drop to about half temp,so i thought the fan clutch must be the blame,i replaced this and also replaced the thermostat and waterpump while i was there and flushed the radiator,i removed alot of air from the cooling system and refilled.
but now the temprature just rises into the red all the time,
I can't think of anything else
help please.

Answer
Matthew,
 First and most importantly, NEVER, EVER let your car run hot.  I know it's easier said than done, but dont let the temp get higher than 3/4.  If it goes above that, pull over and turn off the engine until it cools back down.  

 Ok, since its only overheating when you are sitting in traffic, we know that the engine is cooling somewhat.  That means that the water pump is working.  Now, your thermostat may not be opening fully (its possible to buy a faulty t-stat).  If the T-stat is not opening fully, then it will restrict the flow of coolant and restrict the cooling abilities of the system.  Check the T-stat.

 Also, when you were bleeding the system, did you have the heat on inside the car?  If you drain the coolant, it will drain coolant from the heater core inside the dash, when you replace the coolant, an air pocket will form there, and as soon as you turn on the heat... that air gets pushed inside the engine.  So I would bleed the system again, with the heat on.  
 Even if you DID bleed the system with the heat on, this sounds to me that it's just and air bubble in the engine.  I would start the car, and rev the engine to about 2k rpm.  Hold that rpm while you bleed the system.  
 
 Good Luck,
 Josh