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Thread: Expansion tank 98 Z3M

  1. #1
    Join Date
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    1998 Z3M, 2006 330i

    Expansion tank 98 Z3M

    I want to relocate my radiator expansion tank. It is now on the PS of the radiator. I see that some Z3s (99 2.5 for example) have the exp tank on the DS, between the fusebox and the shocktower. I know I'd have to relocate my cruise control, which is in that space now, no problem there. There seem to be a few different styles. Some have 2 hose connections (mine has only one). Without having my hands on one, it's hard to know which to buy. ......... So, has anyone ever made this conversion? Any thoughts?
    Last edited by zellamay; 04-24-2019 at 02:15 PM.

  2. #2
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    I think you can also move it behind the pass side shock tower like euro e36 models

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  3. #3
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    https://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/s...-helpful-hints.

    Robb used all factory parts, albeit for a euro model. If you decide to go with the M54 setup, you'll need to be creative in the plumbing, as the M54 heater return passes through the tank.


    /.randy

  4. #4
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    The Z3 tank by the fusebox seems far easier. All I need to do is relocate the cruise control, make some mounts for the new tank, and run hoses to it. I'll have to get a longer bleeder hose, but the one that goes under the intake should be able to be cut to fit. ..... One big question: The tank has 2 places for hoses, (but my stock tank only has 1) . I have searched trying to figure out why. It seems I should just cap one off. ........... Does anyone know what the other fitting hooks to?
    *********
    Okay, it is the electrical connector. It just happens to look just like the coolant line connector (in the limited pics I could find). Now, another issue: apparently this tank requires special hoses with retainer clips. I'll buy those hoses, but I wonder how it will attach to my existing fitting under the intake.
    Last edited by zellamay; 04-24-2019 at 05:51 PM.

  5. #5
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    Like the gas cap, the Z3 header tank is unpowered. As stated, that is the heater return connection. Happy replumbing, over and out.


    /.randy

  6. #6
    Join Date
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    1998 Z3M, 2006 330i
    Moving the expansion tank from the side of the radiator to the area behind the DS shock tower is a great mod. I have always hated that thing hanging on the radiator. It's in the way for cooling, mounted on that flimsy bracket, and you have to mess with it every time you go near the radiator. Moved to the DS area, it's out of the way, higher than the radiator, and gives a cleaner look. It's cheap and easy. Only big cost is the tank: $40. I just capped off the extra hose connection (Autozone: $4). I used 3/8 hose for the bleed line (stock is 5/16), so it could fit on the tank (to avoid $40 for the BMW hard line). Cutting the stock hose from the bottom of the expansion tank to fit the new location is easy. All it needs for mounting is two little brackets, that you can buy at any hardware store for $2. The hardest part is removing the cruise control bracket. I ended up grinding those rivets out.

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