last weekend the coolant tank was completely empty.
I Was so scared I Thought the coolant was being eaten by the engine itself.
I found out that the tank is leaking from all over the edge where the upper part is attached to the lower part. I tightened the bolts holding the two pieces and it stopped leaking. I Was wondering if it is better to completely replace it with a new tank...
is it difficult to replace is this a DIY thing ?

 

an important part like that I would replace with new, check at SNG Barrat USA store.

or try to repair it using JB Weld for plastics sold at Walmart in the hardware dept.

there is a "low coolant" sensor in the front of the tank, I would also replace it, as well as
the radiator (tank) Cap. But don't throw away those old parts, be a good pack rat.

 

repalcing the tank is easy, you need a couple sockets and a ratchet which by now you must have?

A medium size flat screwdriver and/or a small socket and ratchet to loosen the two clamps and pry the two hoses off their ports.

once you get the tank out, you have the new one ready with the sensor already installed and just bolt it in place like the old one, then attach the hoses and tighten the clamps but not excessively tightened. Tight enough.

 

hi Jose it needs to be replaced it is still leaking and usually when I drive it for long time (over 100mi). I guess the low coolant sensor is not working because the tank was empty... and I got no warning

 

OMG it's really expensive almost $300

 

I think you might be looking at one for the wrong car - a later Jag. I did a quick search and I see prices closer to $150.

I've been through two of these in my car - I hate plastic tanks that are pressurized. I had a head gasket leak way back when which didn't help, however I found a company in either Australia or New Zealand (can't recall which) who made metal replacement tanks which is what I have now in mine. No idea how much that was now or whether anyone still makes these - this was over 10 years ago - but I much prefer the confidence it gives me.

 

Also check with Dave Boger at Everyday XJ I would bet he has some good used ones.

 

I found some good on ebay too, new ones for $200.

 

I would be tempted to find another way. The low coolant sensor failed to tell me the coolant was gone. The temp guage also failed to tell me of an over heat, til it was too late. I lost the DOHC in my 83. We came home on a flat bed. 83 now powered by a 94 Cadillac Lt1. Lots of time, lots of work, lots of money. But, sure is fun to drive....


Carl

 

$200.00 is way to much. I would not pay more than $40.00 for a replacement.