Hi, sorry, I'm not sure if this is where I'm supposed to post this...

I have a 2005 XJ8 Van den Plas and an Engine Coolant Low message:

Are there any step by step instructions, Pics or YOU TUBE videos on how to replace the coolant tank? Please help.

Already bought the tank but can't see/reach the bottom hose and/or the sensor... am I supposed to remove something first to get it out of the way?

I thought it would be a relatively easy fix. Would greatly appreciate hearing from you before I have it towed to repaired shop. Please help.

BTW.... I'm replacing the coolant tank because the top nozzle onto which with the overflow hose fits into broke off and there is not enough of a nozzle to attach the hose.... It broke off when a good samaritan rescued a kitten that was stuck under my hood... he had to squeeze his hands/arms in between all the hoses and other stuff under the hood to get to the kitten... he got it out, but I believe all that tugging broke off the nozzle. Maybe I have other issues related to the Engine Coolant Low message, but I know the tank definitely needs to be replaced. Any thoughts would greatly be appreciated.

 

Well, Jaggy, you're in the right place ! I am not familiar with the V8 versions of this model, but no doubt somebody is and will probably have done the same job you're looking to do. The coolant tank is a regular job due to stupid Jaguar engineers not specifying a sufficiently robust tank. No doubt the usual bean counters had some influence, as it was Ford that owned Jaguar at the time !

 

Check out the ongoing discussion here on the topic:
https://www.jaguarforums.com/forum/x...failure-33553/

 

Thanks XJL... the link to the ongoing thread hinted at what I needed to remove in order to make replacing the coolant tank easier. Thanks! Replaced!!! :-)

 

How long did it take you?

 

About 30 minutes. :-)

 

Jaggy it is a simple procedure, lot of touch and feel....On top disconnect the small coolant return line that feeds the small nipple entering the top of the tank.remove the cap,and then the two 10mm bolts that secure the tank to the car.Remove the bleed screw if you plan on reusing it, but new tank should come with one.Below you will have a bulk heater hose(1" diameter) that is held by a clamp,I use a pick and hook tool to grasp the clamp being careful not to drop it.( a retractable magnet is handy in case you do)As for the sensor you feel for it and remember it will turn to the side to lock and seal into place, you can turn it to get better leverage to remove the sensor connector.Once the lower bulk hose is off you can dislodge the tank from the knotched slot that holds it in place, then get your hand to the sensor more easily.I recommend that if you have a loss of coolant you should presssurize the system while its cold to check for leaks to confirm where the coolant is escaping.But all in all thats basicly how it is removed, just reverse procedure to install...Make sure you bleed it for air pockets etc...Until next time happy wrenching.

 

those top nipples break VERY easily so be careful not to move it much!