Water Pressure - Expansion Tank - El Leako Mondo

[steve_earwig]

What did the level in the bottle end up at?

[Welly]

Mmm, hang on, the previous owner 'brimmed' the expansion tank? well then it's always going to spew out excess water because there's no air gap to expand into.

There's been debate on here before about where the correct water line should be and most agreed it was at the bottom of the filler neck (there's a kinda 'slot' in the housing and the water sits there quite happy).

I'm guessing that by spewing the water out it's actually siphoning too much with it and putting the light on. You may find that by running a lower level it will stay there.

[steve_earwig]

I think this is (one of) the thread(s) you're referring to viewtopic.php?f=1&t=5318

That was kind of my thought, they generally spit out any excess so maybe the level sensor is kaput, although I'm not comfortable with all the bubbles.

[Welly]

I think for what it's worth I might be inclined to try a dose of K-Seal to see what goes?? or if you just want to potter about in the car just keep an eye on it all.

I don't think you should spend a lot of money at this stage.

[dirtydirtydiesel]

Waxman, take it to your local indy garage & get a sniff test done, mine did my last motor F.O.C but the most it should cost is £20-£25 . worth it for the peace of mind with the bubbles & a £10 bottle of K-seal works wonders.
I did warn you about the sensors on these car's, my next door neighbours 110 hdi has had a coolant light on for the last 8 years but allways check's out alright
I have to agree with others your expantion tank should be just over half full, I'll check mine tomorrow
Hope this is of some help Paul.... If you do one thing get a sniff test done

[Waxman]

Thx for the responses guys

Filled it up this morning about half a litre - I do think this car now has the trait that it's found it's own level - which does seem to below the coolant sensor - so the coolant light will come on. Welly I think you've possible hit nail on the head here.

Paul, if it does cause further issue's then sniff test for sure.

Think that of the age/mileage of this particular car, it's just something I'll have to learn to live with. Other than this issue it feels like quite a nice car to drive - heavy power steering when parking etc but guess that's another trait.

MFD coming back at 47 mpg which I've not seen for a long time - used to getting around 9mpg so that's all good.

Right back on track with the cleaning process, and to start enjoying the car - Boot space to do in the morning and CD changer lead check etc.

Thank you all for the input & replies back here. Very useful indeed.

[Welly]

What you should try is to feel the large coolant hoses when the engine is hot - if they feel like they are ready to burst then there could be an over-pressure problem (HG leak into a water way).

[Waxman]

^^

No hoses allow you to squidge them etc, they don't feel solid etc