Omega Owners Forum

Omega Help Area => Omega General Help => Topic started by: Omega_Dan on 07 February 2011, 12:57:54

Title: Minor coolant loss
Post by: Omega_Dan on 07 February 2011, 12:57:54
I normally check my levels every 2 weeks or so. On the last few occasions i have noticed that the coolant level in the expansion tank is about 1 centimeter below the level line. Topped it up and 2 weeks later its dropped to a similar level.

I know its only a tiny amount but where is it going?


Had a good look in the engine bay and underneath for signs of leaks and all seems fine. Temperature gauge is fine. Have a little mayo in the oil filter neck as i dont use it alot but the dipstick is showning nice clean oil.

Where shall i start looking for such a small loss?


Dan :)
Title: Re: Minor coolant loss
Post by: Andy B on 07 February 2011, 13:02:14
Quote
...
Where shall i start looking for such a small loss?


Dan :)

Heater by-pass valve is a good place to start.  ;) ;)
Title: Re: Minor coolant loss
Post by: Omega_Dan on 07 February 2011, 13:04:16
Is it difficult to check andy? its under the scuttle drain isnt it?
Title: Re: Minor coolant loss
Post by: Andy B on 07 February 2011, 13:10:35
Quote
Is it difficult to check andy? its under the scuttle drain isnt it?

Yes, under the driver's side of the scuttle, behind the driver's side of the V. Check with the heater set a varying positions as it might leak on hot but not at cold.
To change it, it's easiest to remove the scuttle & wiper linkage to gain enough access. A good hour will be enough to do the job though.  :y  :y  :y
Title: Re: Minor coolant loss
Post by: Omega_Dan on 07 February 2011, 13:14:12
Its work a look at that then. Think there is a 'how to' guide on it somewhere which should help.
Title: Re: Minor coolant loss
Post by: ScaniaV8 on 07 February 2011, 14:12:14
HBV changed in an hour?.....and how many layers of skin were removed from your fingers and knuckles.
 It took me about 2.5 hours, following the excellent guide instructions. Just make sure your wear some thin mechanic gloves because access to the HBV, even with theskuttle removed and wipers, it is a right 'pig' to get reach and fiddly with the spring clips as well. If not, ensure plentiful supply of plasters, and the kids could also be rich if have a swearbox donation as well ! :-)  Good luck with your HBV change.
 N.B. Doing a PRESSURE test on the cooling system will identify the culprit area(s). Theres a good guide in the maintenance section on how to do this as well.
Title: Re: Minor coolant loss
Post by: Andy B on 07 February 2011, 14:20:18
Quote
HBV changed in an hour?.....and how many layers of skin were removed from your fingers and knuckles.
 It took me about 2.5 hours, following the excellent guide instructions. Just make sure your wear some thin mechanic gloves because access to the HBV, even with theskuttle removed and wipers, it is a right 'pig' to get reach and fiddly with the spring clips as well. If not, ensure plentiful supply of plasters, and the kids could also be rich if have a swearbox donation as well ! :-)  Good luck with your HBV change. .....

I did my last HBV in about an hour, in a caravan park in Kent.  :y :y :y
Title: Re: Minor coolant loss
Post by: fiend61 on 07 February 2011, 14:25:09
yup done mine in less than an hour but i happen to have a extremely long pair of longnose pliers  ;) :y
Title: Re: Minor coolant loss
Post by: cem_devecioglu on 07 February 2011, 14:37:33
other areas that may leak also (you may see some residue)

oil cooler area (under the inlet manifold)

thermostat

coolant tank cap (mine did leak but very slighly I understand by listening,  engine must be hot and ignition off in a silent area;D)

heater matrix..

also there are some color additives that you can use..
Title: Re: Minor coolant loss
Post by: Evo on 07 February 2011, 15:34:04
If any of your coolant hoses have non original clips ..... its worth tightening them up a little as they can leak coolant without showing any sign of leakage.