My 98 XK8's expansion tank had a small leak that I was aware of, untill this morning. Ordered a new one from Jagbits.

Is there anything I need to know before starting, when replacing, or anything else I need to do while replacing the tank?

Thanks in advance!

 

As you'll be cracking open the cooling system, it might be a good time to consider the Thermostat Tower (if OE plastic) and Thermostat for possible replacements at the same time.

Graham

 

How much did you pay for the new tank?

 

Check all the in/out hoses. The ends tend to deteriorate. It should come with cap and sensor. If not, consider those as replacement items.

 

Been there, done that. Yes, look to replace anything else in the system that looks "iffy", has obvious coolant residue around the joints, or is just plain old. Those hoses only last so long -- especially the ones under the plenum (sorry about that).

But the reservoir is relatively easy, just a bit tight to get to the lower connections. Stuff some rags under everything before you start removing screws, clamps, etc. It will catch small items, AND will catch the coolant that will leak out. If you suction out the reservoir first, or drain the fluid from down low, you won't have so much pour onto the back of the engine and tranny joining. Set aside plenty of time and be patient. Lots of beer and a few bandaids will help, too.

 

Unless you know the history of all the above mentioned items I would suggest you seize the moment to change the water pump, thermostat, all the hoses, thermostat tower as well as a flush and replace the coolant. Years go by and we forget that everything, but us of course, have a engineered lifetime. An early car should have had the coolant changed at least 3 times by now.

 

If I take the time to suction out as much coolant as I can from the plastic reservoir tank, approximately how much coolant will then leak/spill during the tank removal process? When I eventually have to replace my wife's XK8's tank, I'd like to minimize the mess as much as possible....

 

Jon89, when I was messing with my tank I suctioned out as much as I could and clamped the bottom hose. Minimal coolant loss.

 

Another approach is to use a wine cork on the bottom hose. One of the european guys (GGG?) mentioned this and it works perfectly. Of course then you have to dispose of the wine, but that often is the simple part. (hint: finish the tank replacement before the wine)

 

I have several black rubber stoppers somewhere in my miscellaneous parts chest drawers in my garage. I'll try to remember to find them and have them handy just before tank replacement time. Thanks for the tip....