Expansion tank and coolant level sensor - removal and refitting

Removal
1 With the engine cold, slowly unscrew the expansion tank cap to release any remaining pressure from the cooling system. Remove the cap.

2 Place a suitable container beneath the expansion tank.

3 Disconnect and plug the upper hose.

4 Where applicable, disconnect the coolant level sensor wiring plug.

5 Unscrew the expansion tank securing screws, and tilt the tank so that the coolant runs to the sealed end.

6 Disconnect and plug the lower hose.

7 Drain the expansion tank into the container and remove the tank.

8 Where applicable, the coolant level sensor can be removed from the tank by unscrewing the collar from the sensor, then withdrawing the spacer, sensor and seal (see illustration).

15.8a Removing the coolant level sensor from the expansion tank
15.8a Removing the coolant level sensor from the expansion tank

Renew the seal if necessary. Note that the sensor can only be fitted in one position (see illustration).

15.8b Fitting the coolant level sensor
15.8b Fitting the coolant level sensor

Refitting
9 Refitting is a reversal of removal.

10 On completion, top-up the coolant level to the maximum mark, then refit the expansion tank cap and run the engine at a fast idling speed for several minutes. Check the expansion tank for leaks, then stop the engine and if necessary top-up the coolant level.

    See also:

    General description
    The body is of welded steel construction available in 3 or 5-door Hatchback, 3 or 5- door Estate, soft-top Cabriolet, or Van configurations. The body is of monocoque construction and is of energy ...

    Handbrake - adjustment
    1 Adjustment of the handbrake is normally automatic by means of the self-adjusting mechanism working on the rear brake shoes. 2 However, due to cable stretch, occasional inspection of the handbrak ...

    Braking system
    The braking system is of the dual circuit hydraulic type with disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. A diagonally split dual circuit hydraulic system is employed in which each circu ...