Topping up the coolant

[cdt]

Why should you check the coolant level on the expansion tank and then top it up nearer the radiator? Would it matter if you topped up through the expansion tank?

[adam quantrill]

No - that's how I normally do it - have done for 15 years. I usually squeeze the rad top hose a few time to force out any air. The only time that the swan neck needs opening is if the coolant is REALLY low - e.g. empty expansion tank.

[sevans]

Don't know anything about RV8's specifically but I thought the same on my daily run around, a Honda Accord and always checked the level in the header tank, never bothered checking the radiator level. Last year it started to get a little hot when in standing traffic, ticking over etc. When I looked at it the radiator took 2 pints of water when the level looked fine in the expansion bottle. Not had any more problems since topping it up some 5,000 miles/6 months ago.

[cdt]

adam quantrill said:

No - that's how I normally do it - have done for 15 years. I usually squeeze the rad top hose a few time to force out any air. The only time that the swan neck needs opening is if the coolant is REALLY low - e.g. empty expansion tank.

That makes sense now, when I was told to fill up at the swan neck was when my radiator was leaking - at that point the expansion tank was empty after a journey or two.

[firefox1712]

Well, I think filling at the swan neck is the right way to do it. Then run engine and top up again at swan neck, repeat until full. Also squeeze top hose to expel any trapped air.

Just filling at the overflow tank allows for air locks to build up which can encourage loss of and apparent use of water.

[dickymint]

Been lucky with the SEAC as it hasn't needed a drop since i've owned it. Wish I could say the same about the engine oil