Coolant leak from overflow

[96defender]

Hey folks,
I have recently returned from a 2 month trip up and around the east coast (in which Hugo performed admirably) but have since noticed an ongoing drop in coolant level. I couldn't find the leak until today when I topped him up and went to the shops and back and found a significant amount leaking from the side of the overflow. I'm not sure if it is related but I did notice a new sound about 1500kms from home coming from the front (fan/radiator area) of the car which is a winding up noise and is rev dependent (kinda like the sound you get when reversing a manual car).

Anywho, I'd like to know if anyone else has had a similar leak and if there is a possible bigger underlying issue than just a cracked/damaged overflow?

Thanks in advance!

[BilboBoggles]

What engine is in Hugo?

[jboot51]

The noise could be a pulley bearing or alternator bearing, or worse case the bearing behind the fan pulley.


Easiest is to remove the main and ac belts and check all rotating parts.


As for the coolant loss it could be a few things.
Probably start with a new cap and see what happens.


The coolant expansion tanks have been known to split at the seams.

[96defender]

Thanks for the replies I appreciate it.

Sorry it is a 300tdi.
And yes it does seem to be coming from the seam.

[Grappler]

The black tanks tend to split
When replacing it try a white one and you won't need to replace it again

[jboot51]

Opaque coolant tank is what you want.

Not the clear one. They are rather thin