coolant expansion tank questions

philminotti · #1 (**permalink**) 07-14-2013, 06:30 PM

I'm embarrased to admit it, but I'm not sure what these fittings on the Kirkham expansion tank are for...is one an air bleed and the other for a coolant recovery canister?

http://www.clubcobra.com/forums/atta...1&d=1373851508

I assume one of them goes to this fitting on the radiator...

http://www.clubcobra.com/forums/atta...2&d=1373851535

Also, what are folks using for a coolant recovery tank, and where would one mount it in a Kirkham?

Thanks.
Phil

dcdoug · #2 (**permalink**) 07-14-2013, 06:45 PM

The one near the cap is the overflow tube (mine just pukes on the road, no recovery tank), the one on the other side connects with a hose to the fitting on the radiator in your pic.

philminotti · #3 (**permalink**) 07-15-2013, 03:19 AM

Thanks Doug. Not sure I want coolant puking on the road though, especially since the car is parked above my wife's BMW. That would not go over well...

BMK · #4 (**permalink**) 07-15-2013, 03:46 AM

My Cobra parks over my little 356 now - different to the gallery photo.

Yes the overflow does just drop to ground. Make sure it is well down below the chassis or it makes a mess of the rails and everything behind it..

Grab a cheap plastic tray and fit it between the hoist rails if you have a four post hoist saves overflow, oil etc..... dripping on the bosses car below.

mickmate · #5 (**permalink**) 07-15-2013, 03:48 AM

I found a small rectangular catch tank fitted nicely on the top of an inner fender. I used a Canton piece like this.http://www.summitracing.com/parts/ctr-80-211/overview/

dcdoug · #6 (**permalink**) 07-15-2013, 04:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by philminotti

Thanks Doug. Not sure I want coolant puking on the road though, especially since the car is parked above my wife's BMW. That would not go over well...

Once you get the level right in the surge tank, it shouldn't puke much. The level for mine is ~1/3 full. YMMV.

csx4017 · #7 (**permalink**) 07-15-2013, 08:16 AM

I do not think you will need a large volume over flow capability. As Doug indicates if your tank level is correct and your cooling system is functioning properly, you should not puke much at all. I believe the addition of some catch tank capacity is wise. Very important if you are going to track it. I have a small catch tank mounted on the firewall. Nick's is great looking with a large capacity. The inner fender area is a seldom used but good location. Kirkham tanks are beautiful !!!