So far you guys have helped me diagnose and fix an air lock. Thank you!
Now I'm trying to fit a new febi expansion tank, and despite it being as tight as I can can get it, it's still not flush. The bracket, screws, and cap go on fine, my question is- am I half-assing this and not trying, or is this as "fit" as it's gonna get due to the difference in brand? If I leave it, am I just going to blow the tank? https://imgur.com/a/6gQBx
Thanks in advance!
OK, I filled the expansion tank with water and it's definitely not sealed, but now it's in there that tight that I can't get it out to investigate further. As it was I had to saw out the old one.
Now I'm doubting it was a problem with the tank to begin with... Crap.
I think the nipple on the bottom of the tank goes through a hole in the flange of the fan shroud that supports the tank. You might have a hose clamp that is interfering.
I'd personally replace the whole radiator
C217 S63 AMG S Cabriolet ( Daily )
E87 116i with mild cams, headers, cold air intake making 136 bhp Lol (My Learning Track Car)
E36 328i Sport ( Project in making and future race/track car )
Hmmmm, it's been a very long time since I looked at a 318's cooling system, but as I recall, that tank sits into or onto a square sealing point which is part of the radiator itself, quite different from 6 cylinder cars.
I'm afraid that you're going to have to use force, in one direction or another; that tank is a very difficult piece, as you already know. I'd probably try to remove it, since it's leaking, rather than continuing to push downwards. You may need to use some sort of lever, like a big flat screwdriver, while pulling up.
When you do get it off again, inspect both parts for damage, then grease the seal area with a tiny bit of vaseline or K-Y....and then put your weight into it pushing downwards while wiggling a bit, side to side, and fore -and-aft, until it goes "clunk". If the radiator is old and brittle, it may break. (Yes, it's a terrible design)
Chris Powell
Racer and Instructor since, well. decades, ok?
Master Auto Tech, owner of German Motors of Aberdeen
BMWCCA 274412
German Motors is hiring ! https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...1#post30831471
Apologies, new here. Your reply is below. Buggered what I should do next.
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Yikes. It was roadworthy and ready to sell (even had a buyer), before I started thinking "this heater isn't hot enough". Decided I couldn't sell it with known problems, now I'm scared it's a money pit.
No other steps you'd recommend before getting to this stage? Cheers!
Thanks for this. It is proving to be a prick of a job!
I'm afraid the levering might not be enough, as with the original. I may have used a rag, block of wood, and a mallet on it.
Should I take the whole radiator off? It has to hosey bits at the bottom, around the middle, that look difficult.
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