Hey all,

Just posted my intro/hello post in the newbie section, names Phil. I recently purchased a 1968 Olds Cutlass that is in decent shape but well...needs some TLC to make it great. I've already replaced all the weatherstripping cause it was rotten, also the exhaust manifold gaskets, and tires due to dry rot. My newest adventure is that I found the coolant reservoir tank to be cracked and broken at the neck. I'm sure it's not original, but ideally I'd like to find one the same/similar for mounting purposes, though I'm definitely open to suggestions without having to drill any new holes. Here's a couple pics of the mounting bracket and tank that I took off. I'd be very happy with any suggestions offered. So the bracket mounted around the neck of the coolant tank with a bolt/nut, pics below. I'm just having a really difficult time finding another coolant tank like this...

 

There are all types of flavors in puke bottles and coolant recovery systems. Just find one you like as yours is/was a cheap after market one.

 

To add to this…your car did not come with a factory installed coolant overflow reservoir. Any reservoir you install will be an aftermarket.

 

Check Ebay, an extra hole or 2 where they mount one hurt anything if you really need the catch can...

 

Any auto parts chain ought to have one. Finding someone behind the counter who knows what you're talking about might be another story.

 

You could get one for a 70-72 Cutlass, it will look more correct but your car didn't come with one. Replace your radiator cap with one for an overflow recovery tank.

Good luck!!!

 

​​​​​​ That's interesting... I'll post a pic of my current radiator cap, how different would the one be that you're talking about? I don't really know the difference as I'm very new to all this.

 

The cap for an "open" system (no recovery tank) has a spring loaded vent/poppet valve that is normally closed.




A "closed" system uses a cap with a non-spring-loaded vent/relief valve that is normally open. You can usually tell by shaking the cap. The non-spring-loaded vent valve will rattle.

 

If you absolutely must use the same tank, there's some good videos on the tube of yous that go over restoring white plastics. Never tried it but seen great results on there.


Mainly used by guys into retro gaming. It's amazing how well some of them turn out.

 

My '68 Cutlass S also had evidence of a missing aftermarket coolant overflow tank. I put the bracket to use and now have a full 16.9 oz (500ml) overflow container. As long as I recognize that any green fluid in it is NOT Mtn Dew, I should be fine.