[C320-list] Coolant Levels

[Warren Updike]

Jeff, the hose from the heat exchanger cap should be attached to the bottom
of the overflow bottle. As the engine heats up, the coolant expands, pushes
past the spring loaded cap, through the hose and into the bottle.  As it
cools, the opposite occurs. At least that's how I understand it; and, how it
seems to work on our boat.

Warren & Pattie Updike
1994 C320 #62 "Warr De Mar"

-----Original Message-----
From: Jeffrey Brown [mailto:oceanblues at mac.com] 
Sent: Tuesday, July 09, 2013 12:36 PM
To: Catalina C320 List
Subject: [C320-list] Coolant Levels

My coolant overflow has been bone dry for years. I noticed the overflow
container is below the heat exchange opening where the tube runs from just
under the cap to the overflow. Even if I fill the overflow to the minimum
level as indicated I don't see how it would flow back into the heat
exchanger. I always thought is was just used in a case you had too much
coolant in the system. Does that make any sense?  I can fill the overflow to
the minimum but it doesn't appear it will provide anything. I always just
make sure the coolant level is visable when you open the cap while cold. All
input is appreciated. 

Jeff Brown
949-350-5123