Radiator upgrades on L400, why?

[gnarly]

I've been looking around at the L400's. Just sold my other JDM van, looking for a Delica =).

It seems there is quite a common mod with radiator expansion mods. Is there a deficiency in the L400 or is this just an upgrade. Overheating problem?

How is parts availability with the new L400's in the lowermainland?

Thanks.

[MardyDelica]

[Pacific JDM Parts]

I think what you are refering to is the Cooling system expansion bottle.The problems with them are that the plastic goes brittle over time and then they split and start to leak coolant.As with any vehicle if coolant loss is not repaired you are going to have engine damage.Also as Mardy pointed out full cooling system service and replacement of radiator/water pump/thermostat and hoses are highly recomended for worry free owner ship.
Check out the L400 parts section for all your part inquires.

[ccautos]

as per expansion bottle depend on the condition if worn out then it will just break wont cause overheating just clean it inside

If it just break it not need just clean you need new bottle as cooling systems rely on having pressure. No pressure and loss of coolant = overheating.

Any signs of cracking of the coolant expansion bottle = new bottle.

Cleaning does not fix anything. Hope this good information.

[Brave Auto International]

If it just break it not need just clean you need new bottle as cooling systems rely on having pressure. No pressure and loss of coolant = overheating.

Any signs of cracking of the coolant expansion bottle = new bottle.

Cleaning does not fix anything. Hope this good information.

100% agree........ cleaning it just means you can see where it cracked after the damage is done. The expansion bottle is the weakest link in the coolant system on L400 in my experience so if your bottle is discolored (yellow/brown) then as "ccautos" said..... replace it sooner than later, they are not that expensive. If you are running on a tight budget, you are better off spending money in this direction rather than a new rad unless you rad has seen better days.

Cheers

MB...

[MardyDelica]

[ccautos]

of course you need to replace it if any sign of crack.you can not just clean it when there is a crack on it. but if you see any yellow sign & the plastic is o.k.;

Well there seems to be crack


and there is definately a yellow sign


Do I need a new bottle ???

[fastbmw7]

hi, i dont mean if there is a crack on this plastic bottle do dont have to replace it. of course you need to replace it if any sign of crack.you can not just clean it when there is a crack on it. but if you see any yellow sign & the plastic is o.k.as long as no crack on this bottle, you can just clean it for now as many delica came from japan dont do change anti freeze since new. thats why with this 15 yrs old delica you can clean it or change it. this yellow bottle when its old does not mean its no good. orginal parts is still better to used.
Cheers;

I've been researching these new series vans, and according to other forums, everyone seems to agree that the plastic coolant bottle is a weak point on these vans and most reputable dealers like Brave or CCAutos replace theirs as a matter of course if it has not already been replaced recently.
Why would you suggest not to change it in view of the fact that, as a 10 or 15 year old part, it will likely fail in the near future? I am just asking because I don't want to have any unexpected problems with mine while I am on a big trip I am planning. I have a big dog that I love very much and I would be very sad if she started to lick at the coolant that started to leak from my van when I wasn't watching.

[RMI]

We have L400 radiators, hoses, waterpumps, thermostats and expansion bottles in stock.

[ccautos]

Does my crack look like it need new bottle ?? Crack not plastic it original so it ok ??

[Brave Auto International]

Does my crack look like it need new bottle ?? Crack not plastic it original so it ok ??

Maybe just a light clean and a wax and it will be like new.....

[RMI]

That reminds me, my crack could do with a good wax.

[RaddCruisers]

That reminds me, my crack could do with a good wax.

Please do not invite me to this party...

~John

[deLOOKA]

LOL..........

of course you need to replace it if any sign of crack.you can not just clean it when there is a crack on it. but if you see any yellow sign & the plastic is o.k.;

Well there seems to be crack


and there is definately a yellow sign


Do I need a new bottle ???

[RMI]

oh, come on John. You know you like to show off the butt cleavage every chance you get. The ladies like that look.......the plumber look.