Radiator overflow tank question

[mnido]

I am in the process of installing a radiator overflow tank from Summit Racing, utilizing an Aluminum Champion radiator. The tank is approx. 3” in diameter and 14" tall. The tank has a threaded bung top and bottom. It came with a threaded, barbed fitting for a hose connection, and a threaded valve similar to the drain valve on my radiator. I have been chatting with another member on this forum who has the same set up. His setup has the over flow hose from the radiator going to the bottom of the tank ( tank mounted on the passenger side), and a hose coming from the top of the overflow directed towards the ground. I keep questioning what the valve is for ? I would think if you installed the valve on the overflow tank and did not have it open, the system would not bleed into the overflow tank? Right ??

 

[bronconut73]

If the valve were closed it would certainly be more difficult for the radiator to overflow into the container but it probably still would.
Drag racers and road racers have to close that valve on their catch cans so they do not puke fluids onto the track. But they probably have some sort of way to release pressure from the tank without it puking fluid.

 

[KBUCK1]

Mine is probably the same one you have. I bought it for the looks really. I have mine the opposite way. about 3000 miles so far and no problems. Ive opened the drain a time or 2 on the bottom and it was dry.
not the best photo

 

[mnido]

Mine is probably the same on you have. I bought it for the looks really. I have mine the opposite way. about 3000 miles so far and no problems. Ive opened the drain a time or 2 on the bottom and it was dry.

I don't see how it can work in this configuration. When I put the valve on the bottom and a hose on top, and then blow into the tank, you get immediate back pressure. So I don't understand how the overflow from the radiator could force coolant into the tank ??

 

[KBUCK1]

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What Is A Coolant Expansion Tank?
Expansion tanks provide a high point in the coolant system where a cushion of air can be present. When the coolant in the system builds up in temperature the fluid expands and creates pressure. When under pressure the cushion of air compresses and provides room for the expanding coolant. Expansion tanks generally should be mounted higher than the engine and radiator to ensure that the engine and radiator are completely filled and the tank itself should only be partially filled to allow for expansion.

found this online

 

[bronconut73]

Do not use the valve. Replace it with a barbed hose fitting.
Or just open the valve.

 

[ntsqd]

Put a breather in the top bung, it doesn't need to be pressurized unless it has the only radiator cap on it. Put the valve in the bottom, on the bottom of a T. Connect the radiator to the side of the T. If the cap is functioning properly then when the coolant system cools off and looses pressure it will draw the expelled coolant back in.

 

[markw]

KBUCK1 question for you has nothing to do with the topic. Sorry for the hijack. What is the brand and source for your radiator hoses? Thanks.

 

[mnido]

Mine is probably the same one you have. I bought it for the looks really. I have mine the opposite way. about 3000 miles so far and no problems. Ive opened the drain a time or 2 on the bottom and it was dry.
not the best photo

So the overflow from the radiator goes to the top of the tank, and you have the drain valve on the bottom ?

 

[ntsqd]

If all you need is a "puke tank" to keep it from pizzing on the ground then yep.

If you want to catch and be able to reclaim the coolant automagically, then see my post above.

 

[mnido]

If all you need is a "puke tank" to keep it from pizzing on the ground then yep.

If you want to catch and be able to reclaim the coolant automagically, then see my post above.

Do you have an example of a breather I could use ? My tank has 3/8" threaded bung. Thanks !

 

[ntsqd]

One option: http://www.mcmaster.com/#4450k3/=y2x5ww

Another: http://www.mcmaster.com/#8631t12/=y2x6rm

Yet another: http://www.mcmaster.com/#36635k38/=y2x7jb

 

[mnido]

One option: http://www.mcmaster.com/#4450k3/=y2x5ww

Another: http://www.mcmaster.com/#8631t12/=y2x6rm

Yet another: http://www.mcmaster.com/#36635k38/=y2x7jb

Nice ! Thank You !

 

[KBUCK1]

KBUCK1 question for you has nothing to do with the topic. Sorry for the hijack. What is the brand and source for your radiator hoses? Thanks.

They are goodyear high miler. For mustang. Forgot the year model but its the year model that everyone uses with the champion radiator