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Correct level of Expansion Tank again!!!!!!

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 18:34
by Jutstar
I ve posted a few topics about how i had problems with my T25 and they were resolved, etc, etc.

The main problem was a overheating one, which thankfully has been sorted.

However, i m paranoid so a bit of further guidance would be great. Just wondered what the correct level is of the expansion tank, i ve had a look in haynes and WIKI and can t see.

I v e taken he cap off (when cold) then started the engine and filled it to the brim, then put the cap on and gone off on my way. Last night i did it and the level was just above the minimum line when i stoped, i didn t put any further water in and did 20 miles and the levels stayed the same. I have no leaks anywhere.

My heaters are all good, temperature gauge is good, but it does creep up a bit when the heaters are put on cold, but ive read that this is ok.

So in a nut shell what should the levels be of the expansion tank or is is just one of those guess ones.......

Thanks again guys.


1987 dg wbx 1.9

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 19:30
by Krisis
Hello Jutstar,
With my diesel I fill the expansion tank, in the bay, to the top, start the engine then turn on the heater.
Let the engine warm up, rev to about 2500 / 3000 rpm, the level drops then fill to the brim and put the lid on Then I top the rear tank, behind the flap to max, drive it for a bit and job done. :D
Go back when its cooled down and check and top up where needed :D
TTFN Kris

Re: Correct level of Expansion Tank again!!!!!!

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 20:21
by kevtherev
Jutstar wrote:
I v e taken he cap off (when cold) then started the engine and filled it to the brim, then put the cap on and gone off on my way. Last night i did it and the level was just above the minimum line .........

Woah! stop right there

the expansion tank has no marks
the top up tank does

so are you saying that the top up tank is at the minimum level after filling the expansion tank?

the expansion tank should remain full to the brim at all times.
the top up tank level should remain between the MAX and MIN marks at all times

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 20:45
by Jutstar
Hi Kev,

The expansion tank, i m sure when i was checking it i could see a min mark on it, the top up tank, behind the plate seems to stay put.

By your response is it new engine time ......................................

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 20:49
by kevtherev
what colour is the cap on the expansion tank?

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 20:53
by Jutstar
Hi,

I ve just had it replaced and it s blue.

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 21:13
by kevtherev

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 21:18
by Jutstar
Yup thats the badger

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 21:22
by kevtherev
have you recently drained the cooling system?

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 21:23
by Jutstar
I would add, that since the water pump, expansion tank and cap have been replaced it has only had normal anti freeze put in, i will be ordering some from JK tommorow.

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 21:25
by Jutstar
It s not been drained but did loose quite alot when the above items were replaced, i toped it up with water and normal antifreeze and did bleed it through the rad bleed

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 21:30
by Mocki
it needs bleeding again.......

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 21:33
by kevtherev
Then I would suggest it is still ridding air... keep bleeding

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 21:35
by Red Westie
TWO TANKS......
Top tank with the DARLEK pressure cap (should be full to the brim)
The lower tank (the one you can see behind the number plate flap) the level should be between Min ans Max. This has a plain cap.

Martin

Posted: 02 Nov 2008, 21:38
by Jutstar
Ok lovely job something for me to do next weekend. Is JK the best shout for coolant?