coolant top up

[callanish]

Hi

ran the engine for half an hour today and checked the coolant bottle behind the numberplate and found it empty the light on the dash doesnt show low levels I am now wondering ..... could i have lost the coolant somewhere because of the low temperatures OR did it just need topping up and i never noticed and what are the symptoms of a head gasket problem?

Thanks
Andrew

[R0B]

there is no low water sensor in the tank behind the flap.its in the other tank.the expansion tank sucks water from the tank behind the flap should it need it.just fill this to the correct level.and keep your eye on it.

[happy camper]

Coolant levels should always be done whilst engine is stone cold, the tank behind the numberplate flap is an overflow resevior the critical tank is the header that is under the engine cover this needs to be full to the brim whilst cold, your van may have a very small leak some where so don't worry to much just top up tanks when cold and do your weekly checks

[Red Westie]

I wouldn't be too worried at this stage....obviously the main header tank is full (as the coolant warning light has not come on) and the overflow tank doesn't really hold much, about half a litre? so over a period of time it is possible that this is perfectly normal.
As others have said....top up with 50/50 pre-mix and keep a close eye on the situation.
I would also double check the 'Darlek' pressure cap on the main tank as these frequently malfunction (change if in any doubt)

Martin

[callanish]

Hi

Good advice Thanks for reassuring me

Andrew

[Ian Hulley]

I would also double check the 'Darlek' pressure cap on the main tank as these frequently malfunction (change if in any doubt)

Martin

Do NOT get one from GSF as they don't work.

Ian.

[ghost123uk]

I would also double check the 'Darlek' pressure cap on the main tank as these frequently malfunction (change if in any doubt)

Martin

Do NOT get one from GSF as they don't work.

Ian.

Agreed, Change if in any doubt !!- a faulty blue Dalek cap nearly cost me my engine

Brickwerks sell proper quality ones see this page =
http://www.brickwerks.co.uk/index.php?o ... 8&Itemid=6" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;