over flow tank radiator 72 vette
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Heel & Toe
Joined: Oct 2010
Posts: 15
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From: gretna louisiana
over flow tank radiator 72 vette
Wanting to add a over flow tank to my 72 stingray 350 with a/c . need to know what parts I will need as my vette doesn't have one now . Any pics of location of tank in car would be very helpful
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
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From: Southbound
Cruise-In II Veteran
Aluminum radiators require the surge tank. Copper/brass radiators do not use the surge tank. My guess a 72 with factory air probably used the copper/brass radiator.
The assembly instruction manual (AIM) shows how the tanks and brackets mount on the RH fender skirt.
The assembly instruction manual (AIM) shows how the tanks and brackets mount on the RH fender skirt.
Safety Car
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 3,711
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From: San Antonio TX
You could put a '73 recovery tank on the '72, but it's really not necessary and, as long as your cooling system is up to snuff, adds nothing to performance or reliability. If your cooling system has flaws, better to fix those than put band aids around the problem. If your system is puking coolant, then make sure you have not over-filled the radiator and have a properly functioning radiator cap. The expansion space in the radiator needs to be maintained to ensure you don't puke coolant.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 1,057
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From: Concord Calif
On my 68 with air and the copper brass radiator my system would find a level in the radiator just fine and would never run more than 200 with the 185 thermostat, no problem. But then I added the surge tank to keep the radiator full, and after doing that I stay at the thermostats temp all day no matter how hot it is out side. So I would say if your not concerned about original then add the tank for sure.
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2000
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From: Southbound
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A 'surge' or expansion tank is part of the pressurized side of the system. A coolant recovery tank (as seen on '73 and up Corvettes) is unpressurized.
A surge tank still needs air in it to allow for coolant expansion.
A surge tank still needs air in it to allow for coolant expansion.