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Has anyone ever successfully retrofit a different coolant reservoir?
I’ve been losing coolant in my ‘03 base. The top of the radiator was covered in the tell tale signs of being broken - wet with pink dots on every plastic surface. So I changed the radiator out for a NAPA Premium but I still have a leak. Reading these forums it’s apparently very common for the coolant overflow to crack and leak over time. Because it’s built into the fan shroud it’s a pretty expensive item from Lexus. Seems a pretty easy alternative would be to retrofit an external overflow tank from another car. Has anyone done it? What model/make car did you use, what under location, mounting, etc ?
I haven't experienced a crack in the overflow tank, but I know there are a number of aftermarket tanks out there. Most of which are made from aluminum.
Another option is to use a tank from another Toyota/Lexus product, such as the GS430. I found this on eBay and it's not too expensive;
The lid on mine blew right off after the radiator cap fell to pieces. As a result it whacked the little stem off the radiator neck do I need a replacement radiator entirely. My new overflow can is in fact a 2 litre Asahi Super Dry can. Problem is, its a big ole can and there's not really anywhere to put it
Check out the UK LS430s they appear to have a different coolant reservoir mounted next to the airbox. Trying to find a part number for it. Appears to be more robust and definitely more accessible.
Found the part # but it won't work. The UK LS430s have a different setup which uses a Expansion tank vs a overflow reservoir. Meaning the radiator is different has no radiator cap at all and the expansion tank is pressurized. Not sure why Lexus didn't use this setup for all LS430s.
Pmesfun thanks for the info. I sure like the UK setup. I figured out my disappearing coolant issue - my brand new NAPA radiator is leaking. I took the air inlet off, washed the top of the radiator off, dried it, then went for about a forty five minute test drive. Got home, opened the hood, and saw a pool of coolant on the end opposite the rad cap. Well crap.
08-31-18, 10:57 AM
Has anyone ever successfully retrofit a different coolant reservoir?
