Hi,

I just recently bought a used 2003 mini base model. I had to change the alternator today and was able to do so easily enough. I had to drain some of the coolant and remove the top radiator hose to get the alternator out, but now that everything is back together I can't seem to get new engine coolant in. I've read online where you're supposed to fill it using the coolant expansion reservoir, but mine is already well above the Max line and won't run down into the radiator/engine. I drained at least a gallon and the heat isn't working at all since there isn't enough coolant.

Any ideas?

 

Kinked or pinched hose?

 

If you drained coolant from the opposite side of the thermostat than the expansion tank is on and the thermostat is closed the tank would appear full. (I think, I'm making this up as I type). Remove the expansion tank cap, turn the engine on and let it warm up. Keep an eye on the fluid level of the expansion tank and add coolant as necessary when the thermostat opens up. Their may be bleeder screws that need to be opened up, but I am not that framilier with the justas (base cooper(

Nik

 

I second thee warm-up and bleeder screws. If the engine is warm and still not resolved, I would bet its an air bubble.

 

The tank on the bulkhead is not an expansion tank, but an overflow tank, so filling it won't result in coolant being added to the system.

There is a cap between the engine and battery box where you can add coolant to the system, as well as removing the same radiator hose and filling the radiator through the hose and reattaching.

You will want a cooling system pressure bleeder to get the job done properly and quickly. There is a bleeder on the same radiator hose you removed, it is a black plastic screw that will thread in/out to release pressure.

 

^^ Sounds like he knows what he is talking about. Like I said, not familiar with the justas.

Nik