muffster

Hello folks.
I need to replace the coolant header tank my 1989 2WD, common problem of it splitting and leaking.
Got a replacement used tank form ebay but the hose connections are different. My original tank has got the return hose connection at the top of the tank near to the filler cap. The replacement has got the flow & return connections next to each other at the bottom of the tank and the return in a larger diameter hose.
I think its a 4X4 tank, no doubt someone on here has fitted one. How it is done please, is there some sort of adaptor kit with larger bore pipe sizes?

Thanks.

Caddyshack

I may have a brand new one in the garage, not sure which type it is, I will try and put a pic up.

muffster

Great thanks mate.

martysmartie

iTrader: (1)

4x4 has a wider hose. Roose Motorsport do an adapter hose https://roosemotorsport.co.uk/ford-s...-hose-kit.html

Martin

Ridgey

iTrader: (5)

4x4 tanks are far more available than 2wd ones.
Yes you have a 4x4 one.
A new 2wd one would probably be about a grand+ if one ever came up for sale.

Caddyshack

If they are worth so much I cannot work out why someone doesn't make an exact replica and then control the supply, surely it cannot be that hard to make? Maybe I should buy one and send it out to China for a remake?

martysmartie

iTrader: (1)

Exactly and you would probably have to get in a queue with the concours guys who want them! I actually know a guy who has just got a 3DR project and managed to get one.

I always think though, you could buy one only for it to start leaking!

Martin

Ridgey

iTrader: (5)

There was talk on a forum (here or rsoc) about remaking via Lazer printing method. Didn't seem to get off the ground though, or followed through anyway.
You'd want a brand new one to start with.

Caddyshack

True but if you can buy for Ł1000 and sell it for Ł800 then it hasn't been a waste to get you the pattern.

muffster

Thanks for the link ill order one from Roose.

Does it matter that the return hose to the tank is below the water level?

Thanks.

AndyPen

iTrader: (24)

Don't think so as ford used to do a kit that did the same thing. I was lucky enough to buy two of the last new ones and once I had fitted one of them to the car it didn't take long for it to distort sadly ;-(

The other is hidden away for safe keeping of course!

muffster

So, fitted the new hose and tank today after flushing the system out.
Topped it up and added 2 litres of anti freeze.
Ran it up to temp, needle is nice and steady on the gauge, got the blowers in the car running nice and warm and both sides of the radiator at the bottom are hot.
All seems good but the water level is all over the place. I though id got the correct amount in the tank but after running it for a while, turned off and took the cap off the level has dropped significantly. But when it running it holds steady at the correct level.
Any ideas why?

Thanks.

martysmartie

iTrader: (1)

It's normal for a drop after starting to loose a little, as it's makes it's way through both the system and heater.

I would top up with anti freeze, as 2 litres isn't a 50/50 mixture.

Martin