coolant expansion tank ??? 's

[Junk]

Just wondering if aftermarket expansion tanks work ok? Seems like the factory one has the radiator connected to a dip tube. When I open the cap on a level surface, the water level rises. I am thinking that the air pocket is released, the water from the radiator drains into the expansion tank? Does that mean that there will be air in the system anytime the expansion tank is opened on a level surface?

If the aftermarket tank doesn't have a dip tube, then it seems like there would always be air in the system? I'm considering going custom because I don't like the way the stock one would have to mount to my homemade fan shroud...and I prefer to not mount it to the shroud alltogether..

Don't like the euro one because it requires even more hose.. Hoping to put it on the driver side somewhere but I don't think that will happen unless I go aftermarket air filter/intake.

[RRSperry]

Why try to reinvent the wheel? The stock shroud and tank work fine. The Euro tank works even better... What's your issue?

[KnudsonsM3]

stock system blows.....get the euro

[das borgen]

the euro E36 is better. it seems to last longer and it is self-bleeding..

this tank also came stock on late model E30 if you're inclined to save a few bucks and buy a used tank....but a brand new one from the dealer is not too much.
check out KnudsonM3's thread about the euro tank conversion. lots of great info from experienced members there and KnudsonM3 also (:D)

I myself have a Zionsville shroud/tank combo...it s a bit pricey at $275 + ship but the quality is amazing and will likely outlast the car. it s for sure a great stock US parts replacement

[KnudsonsM3]

ill be making a DIY one of these days.

I have limited photos to work with and all are from a my blackberry.

[Junk]

My issue(s).. who knows how it started. I figured I'd spend the money on an electric fan, (rather than buy a stock fan and clutch) didn't like the stock shroud (with entangled hoses), don't like the way I have to mount the stock tank on homemade shroud. (basically re-using part of stock shroud and entangling hose again and it'll be ugly) I'm still willing to keep it up front even though I have to incline the car to bleed the system...

but why not go with generic universal aluminum tank? Does the zionsville unit have a dip tube on the radiator connection?

I guess when you open the cap and the coolant level rises, air only gets introduced to the radiator and not the head, so it's OK..

I was about to spring for the zionsville unit but I had a piece of aluminum here that was just the right size and a $10 piece of angle aluminum and I have my shroud.. unless 3/8" air gap is not enough.

[das borgen]

ill be making a DIY one of these days.

I have limited photos to work with and all are from a my blackberry.
good stuff.. you did well :buttrock