Coolant reservoir narrative – FYI

[PatrixUSA]

For those with mysterious coolant leaks this might be something to keep in the back of your mind…

Not too long ago I notice my cooling fans running more than I remember them running. Car was not overheating so I didn’t take much notice. Then, I noticed tiny drips of coolant on my garage floor. Now I was worried. With pretty extensive searching, hoses, clamps, etc., I finally traced the leak back to a crack in the coolant reservoir where the reservoir mounts to the inside of the front quarter panel. From sloshing about the coolant inside the reservoir would occasionally leak out and drip down. In addition, this crack in the reservoir must have caused a tiny pressure loss in the cooling system, apparently enough to cause the engine to run slightly hotter, since the fans were running more frequently, because, now, they’re running much less. I've since learned these reservoirs are prone to crack in this location.

Always wanting to contribute my ‘mysteries solved’ stories in case it might assist someone else out there.

BTW – Vehicle is a 96 V6 Camry

Over and out.

[touringcamry]

The reservoir is not pressurized, nor should it be. If you look closely, there should be a vent somewhere. ON my Gen 4.5, it was a little opening on the side of teh cap.

[Unco]

^^ correct. it's an overflow tank, not an expansion tank. it can leak all it wants as long as there is enough coolant to keep the hose submerged, it will work.

[ghettosled]

mine has been cracked (and broken with about an 1/8" hole) ever since i bought the car just over 2 years ago. *knocks on wood* i guess i dont accelerate fast enough or drive on rough enough roads to leak much.

[touringcamry]

Damn your ghetto. At least put some duct tape on there

[ghettosled]

Originally Posted by touringcamry

Damn your ghetto. At least put some duct tape on there

i dont want to add extra weight to the car. a piece here and a piece there can add up to almost an ounce or two!