Coolant Tank "Dip Test"

Technical questions and answers about the Mazda Bongo

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Mark Elvin
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Coolant Tank "Dip Test"

Post by Mark Elvin » Tue Oct 28, 2014 7:38 am

We've got the same issue as many other owners here where our Bongo expansion tank is no longer transparent enough to be able to see the coolant level in the tank.

What the depth of fluid that if I dip the tank through the fill hole I should be seeing?
winchman
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Re: Coolant Tank "Dip Test"

Post by winchman » Tue Oct 28, 2014 8:27 am

I use a McDonalds drinks stirrer with a line on it 19mm from one end
Mark Elvin
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Re: Coolant Tank "Dip Test"

Post by Mark Elvin » Tue Oct 28, 2014 8:32 am

Thanks \:D/
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Diplomat
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Re: Coolant Tank "Dip Test"

Post by Diplomat » Tue Oct 28, 2014 10:37 am

winchman wrote:I use a McDonalds drinks stirrer with a line on it 19mm from one end
Didn't McDonalds withdraw a particular drink stirrer some years back when it was discovered that they were being used for measuring 'lines'?


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haydn callow
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Re: Coolant Tank "Dip Test"

Post by haydn callow » Tue Oct 28, 2014 11:58 am

If your tanks are so manky you cannot see the coolant level, and if, you find you are over time losing a little coolant and need to top up every few weeks.
Undo the two pipes that enter the tank bottom left. Bung them up so you don't lose coolant. Remove the tank and examin the bottom of same......you will be surprised how many have stress fractures/cracks in the bottom.
With a little care this can be done safely without any need to bleed after.
Whilst it's out you can attempt to clean out the tank...not very successful in my experience or fit a new tank...about £120
http://www.coolantalarm.co.uk
Developer of the Mazda Bongo Coolant loss Alarm
Also BMW Clocks
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Re: Coolant Tank "Dip Test"

Post by Dodgey » Sat Nov 01, 2014 6:19 pm

... interesting. That's my symptoms and I've checked all my hoses for leaks before and after the stat opens and found nothing.... will check the bottle tomorrow.
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