R50/53 Coolant expansion tank choices.

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Jul 17, 2017 | 05:06 PM

bcgreen

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Coolant expansion tank choices.

I noticed on Pelican there are a number of replacement tanks - Behr, Rein, OEM, Nordic, febi, and prices varying from $36 - $88. Should I stick with OEM or which other one should I choose. I am confused.
I know the metal one will last the life of the vehicle, but I am not sure how long I will keep this 2004 MC40.
Thanks

Jul 17, 2017 | 07:08 PM

WayMotorWorks

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From: Atlanta, GA

Don't use ANY plastic tanks. We see even brand new ones fail again in 6 months ad they just aren't good.
We only install aluminum tanks in our shop as that keeps them from coming back failed.
https://www.waymotorworks.com/polish...-tank-r53.html

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Jul 17, 2017 | 07:26 PM

ONEBUNCHMIN

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Don't use that one ^. Get something like a Canton or RMW I believe. They use REAL Radiator caps. Everything about the OEM Tank sucks. Including the cap. Which that one above reuses.

Get the Canton. I have one with a Stant Cap and have no issues.

https://www.waymotorworks.com/pressu...k-r53-r52.html

Jul 18, 2017 | 08:16 AM

PelicanParts.com

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From: Harbor City, CA

I'd go with the aluminum brand as it wont fail like the Genuine branded one: http://www.pelicanparts.com/catalog/..._pg3.htm#item9. If you are wanting to stick with a plastic tank, then BEHR and Genuine MINI are the one's I would recommend. Each one comes with a 2 year / 24k mile warranty. Please let me know if you have questions.

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Jul 18, 2017 | 08:39 AM

bcgreen

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So far the tank has been holding up by using a narrow strip of tape like the Flex Tape, but by another brand, you see advertised on TV. So I have plenty of time to do the replacement.

Last edited by bcgreen; Aug 4, 2017 at 04:46 PM.

Jul 18, 2017 | 08:49 AM

gumbedamit

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From: Atlanta Georgia

Quote:

Originally Posted by bcgreen

So far the tank has been holding up by using a narrow strip of tape like the Flex Tape, but another brand, you see advertised on TV. So I have plenty of time to do the replacement.

Whatever works...

Jul 18, 2017 | 10:08 AM

Minnie.the.Moocher

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From: earth PNW

Quote:

Originally Posted by bcgreen

So far the tank has been holding up by using a narrow strip of tape like the Flex Tape, but another brand, you see advertised on TV. So I have plenty of time to do the replacement.

If we pass you on the side of the road, we will be sure to honk!

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Aug 15, 2017 | 03:57 PM

bcgreen

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Does anyone see a problem with this one - http://www.ebay.com/itm/2002-2008-Mi...3375#vi-ilComp

or this one?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Radiator-Hea...-/263059188482

Aug 15, 2017 | 05:15 PM

Whine not Walnuts

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From: Fuquay Varina, NC

The second looks good and has a great price. The question is whether anybody has used either of them. When I bought my JCW, I replaced the tank and take it as a spare when I go on long trips. Around town I have AAA.

Aug 16, 2017 | 08:35 AM

#10

bcgreen

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Quote:

Originally Posted by r53coop

Interesting that the alum. tanks can have such a great difference in price. How much better can the more expensive tank recommended here be compared to the ones on ebay?