Radiator Overflow Tank Question

7173Mustangs.com

Help Support 7173Mustangs.com:

This site may earn a commission from merchant affiliate links, including eBay, Amazon, and others.
Joined
May 19, 2021
Messages
1,367
Reaction score
958
Location
Fort Mohave, AZ & So Cal (Upland)
My Car
73 Grande will undergo three phase build process. Phase 1 is complete (driver). Phase 2 is interior/exterior restoration. Phase 3 is ++ performance.
Hey, a quick question for those of you who have a radiator overflow tank, in a non-standard location. Does anyone have experience installing one in the drive inner fender area? I’ve used the traditional space and the secondary grill area as well with equipment that was part of my 87 drivetrain swap. I think Ford used that location on Fox body Mustangs for the windshield fluid. Just looking for experiences, what reservoir did you use, etc. Thanks for the help.
 
This is my recovery setup in the fender well. Generic plastic tank from I think AutoZone. Works great for many years.
 

Attachments

  • 20240208_000528.jpg
    20240208_000528.jpg
    1.3 MB · Views: 2
  • 20240208_000449.jpg
    20240208_000449.jpg
    1.3 MB · Views: 2
  • 20240208_000322.jpg
    20240208_000322.jpg
    1.3 MB · Views: 3
I'm using this bottle and have it as far forward on the driver's fender apron. I can get a picture if needed. I don't have a washer bottle installed, but the washer bottle can be installed in its original location with this between the washer bottle and radiator support.

1707403075110.png
 
Last edited:
Here’s my issue:

IMG_1221.jpegIMG_1222.jpeg

There’s a little room on the drivers side of the core support, but I’ve already have two coolers in front of the radiator, with a condenser coming, and am worried it’s just too much air flow blockage.

I never considered using the pocket behind the headlight. How did you get that in there CC? How much disassembly was required?

Thank you for the ideas, Steve.
 
This bottle slid right in with zero disassembly, about a 10 minute job including hose routing. It measures approximately 5"x7×3 Don't remember the manufacturer.
 

Attachments

  • 20240208_113940.jpg
    20240208_113940.jpg
    1.3 MB · Views: 0
  • 20240208_113921.jpg
    20240208_113921.jpg
    1.2 MB · Views: 0
Ended up with mine in front of the radiator support, near the passenger headlight bucket…I routed the coolant line under the top edge of the RAD support….
 
I have one like the attached picture. It was on the car when I bought it. It’s mounted behind the grill on the passenger side. I’ll post pictures in a few days. My car is in transit and should arrive in a few days. I’m moving from Washington to New Mexico, only 430 more miles to go before I sleep, lol.IMG_1328.pngIMG_1329.jpeg
 
I have one like the attached picture. It was on the car when I bought it. It’s mounted behind the grill on the passenger side. I’ll post pictures in a few days. My car is in transit and should arrive in a few days. I’m moving from Washington to New Mexico, only 430 more miles to go before I sleep, lol.View attachment 85588View attachment 85589
That Ranchero will be right at home in NM. Seeing yours reminds me of my Dad's 73 Ranchero that he had in AZ for many years. Good vehicles.
 
Here’s my issue:

View attachment 85555View attachment 85556

There’s a little room on the drivers side of the core support, but I’ve already have two coolers in front of the radiator, with a condenser coming, and am worried it’s just too much air flow blockage.

I never considered using the pocket behind the headlight. How did you get that in there CC? How much disassembly was required?

Thank you for the ideas, Steve.
I have one like @cjstaci linked to. Mine is mounted using the same 2 existing bolt locations as that transmission cooler or whatever it is you have. You could do the same. Have the transmission cooler off to one side of the 2 holes like it is now, and the overflow bottle off to the other side of the mounting holes.

Would probably just need a piece of angle stock to offset it a bit to clear your transmission cooler lines.
1707486218647.png
 
I stand corrected.

I did see one on Autozone’s website I’m gonna checkout tomorrow.
Advance Auto Parts: I think this MAY be the one I have. The stated dimensions in their specs look to be the same, as does the shape. Not 100% for sure.
"Certified AC Pro MCR-3 Coolant Return System"
 
@basstrix

I'm using this bottle and have it as far forward on the driver's fender apron. I can get a picture if needed. I don't don't one installed, but the washer bottle can be installed in its original location.

View attachment 85554
Do you remember where you sourced this bottle from?

I haven't picked a bottle yet because they either looked too modern or too chintzy and your looks like a good option!
 
Well, this is what I ended up doing:

IMG_1225.jpeg

I got it at Autozone, I had to remove the bottom of the assembly to insert it. I used the hole that was holding the buck tag to attach the bracket. I think that will do it.

Thank you to all who provided ideas. Steve
 
@basstrix


Do you remember where you sourced this bottle from?

I haven't picked a bottle yet because they either looked too modern or too chintzy and your looks like a good option!
I bought mine from ebay. Here's a listing for it, but you may be able to find a better price.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/334066395755?epid=16030645221&hash=item4dc7e8aa6b:g:9YwAAOSwa29g5CZ-

Edit: Here it is on amazon for a little less.

https://www.amazon.com/Dorman-603-0...UV2/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=Dorman+603-001&sr=8-2
 
I bought mine from ebay. Here's a listing for it, but you may be able to find a better price.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/334066395755?epid=16030645221&hash=item4dc7e8aa6b:g:9YwAAOSwa29g5CZ-

Edit: Here it is on amazon for a little less.

https://www.amazon.com/Dorman-603-0...UV2/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=Dorman+603-001&sr=8-2
What are the capacity and dimensions? The one i have now is too small so i need to find a bigger one. This one looks good and simple for the job.
 
Back
Top