Thread: Radiator Expansion Tank Replacement Tips

Hi
I'm about to replace the radiator expansion tank (hairline crack) on my 2003 D2 td5 auto and would appreciate any comments on tips or tricks, or generally anything to be mindful of when doing this.

Also, what is a good coolant to refill the tank afterwards?

Cheers

Tips:
Do it when the engine is cold...hot coolant hurts.
Make sure you undo the hoses, otherwise it won't come out.
Be careful with the hard lines...they tend to brittle up and crack break if, like me, they're old and disturbed.
When you drop the hose off the bottom, try and capture any coolant, otherwise small kids and dogs might get wet.
Don't let the stuff drain into a garden area, you'll kill stuff, and the soil will be no good for a long time.
Change the cap while you're at it unless it's under 12months old.
Don't be surprised if the level drops the day after you have finished. There are always air traps after even a minor draining like this, but good idea to check for wet spots on lines you have disturbed.

If you are not changing / flushing the coolant system...make sure you use the same stuff that's already in there (fresh of course, not what you recovered), or filtered / demineralised water (the stuff they sell for mum's iron).