Coolant overflow

[venom42]

I have noticed some coolant leaking from the underside of the car occasionally. Today I replaced all of the hoses and the thrmostat (180 degree), only to realize it was coming from the coolant overflow tube. What is causing this? Is there supposed to be a tank for it to collect in, like on newer cars? If so, the previous owner tossed it.

[sblake01]

You should have a plastic coolant recovery tank in front of the radiator support on the passenger side.

[TomoHawk]

I had to get an aftermarket one, because I didn't see the bracket for t he old one. I hate it when they drill holes for those cheap screws! I can hear the rust already forming in those holes

[venom42]

Would it have been in the engine compartment, or on the front side of the radiator support? Anyone happen to have a picture of theirs? Would the best bet be to go with an aftermarket one or try to find one (used or new)?

[ChrisA]

Recovery tank was on front side of radiator support on drivers side. I got a good used one from the junkyard, dont forget the mounting bracket if you go that route.

Chris

[Chino 240Z]

I don't care about original stock stuff, but I just removed an old plastic one and purchased a nice polished alum. recovery tank from Summit. I have more space on the pass. side next to the radiator so it is to be mounted in that area. I believe MSA has a new plastic one for sale, which should look clean where ever you decide to mount it. I didn't mount on the driver side because there is already enough stuff on that side, and I'm also watching not to block air flow on that side. As for drilling holes, I am able to use existing holes on the edge or flange of the radiator itself, so if you are not going the orig. or restore route, look around and you can find a place that works for you.

[sblake01]

I looked through my stuff and I have one! Complete with the bracket, nuts, bolts, and washers. It even has the original hose and clamps and the tie wrap! PM me if you're interested. I'm sure I'll be more reasonable than MSA.

[TomoHawk]

I think there are some holes on the pass. side, front of the radiator support, to mount the tank. I wouldn't want it on the driver's side, either. The air cleaner is there & I wouldn't want to suck in any coolant.

See attaced pic.

[venom42]

I went by the dealer today, and they said that they do not show a part number until '76 models. I can see where it looks like a place for one where you guys described. I picked up a universal one from Pepgirls today, but have not tried to mount it just yet.

[venom42]

IT should not be losing much through this tube anyways correct? Could this be the result of a failing radiator cap?

[2ManyZs]

I don't remember my 75 having one until I put one on like Chino's when I started racing it.

If it's pushing out coolant, it could be a bad cap, or it could be that it is running a bit too hot also. Safest thing to do is to verify the coolant temp in the radiator with a cooking thermometer after you get it up to normal operating temp.

The stock gauge and sending unit are notoriously inaccurate.

You could also spend a few bucks for a cheap mechanical temp gauge and put the sending unit in place of the electrical one and drive it a while with the guage placed somewhere inside the car so you can verify the operating temp while you drive.

[TomoHawk]

That's what the "full warm" and "full cold" marks are for- to see if it's working right. You might be right about the failing cap.